On June 6, 2026, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye hosted the national U17 football team, winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U17, and the U15 team that won the 2025 CAF African Schools Football Championship, at the presidential palace in Dakar. The ceremony, known as 'Honneurs de la Nation,' recognized their continental achievements.
The U17 team secured the AFCON title in April 2025 by defeating Mali 2-1 in the final held in Morocco. The U15 team won the CAF Schools Championship in December 2025, also in Morocco, beating Tanzania 3-1 in the final. Both victories marked Senegal's continued dominance in African youth football.
President Faye praised the players for their discipline and talent, emphasizing the role of sports in national unity and youth development. He announced plans to invest further in grassroots football infrastructure to sustain the country's success.
The event was attended by government officials, football federation leaders, and families of the players. The teams were awarded medals and financial bonuses as part of the national honors.
