Senegalese midfielder Pape Gueye recounted a personal anecdote involving a lunar eclipse in the lead-up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final match against Algeria. The story was shared in media interviews following the tournament.
The match, a tightly contested knockout fixture, took place during the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Senegal emerged victorious, defeating Algeria 1-0 to advance to the semi-finals of the competition. The winning goal was scored by Ismaïla Sarr.
Gueye's anecdote was presented as a lighthearted personal memory from the team's camp, not as a superstitious belief influencing the game's outcome. The midfielder emphasized the team's focus and preparation as the key factors in their success during the tournament.
The 2025 AFCON was originally scheduled for Ivory Coast but was relocated to Morocco. Senegal's journey in the tournament ended in the semi-finals after a defeat to the eventual champions.
