Edouard Mendy

Edouard Mendy is a Senegalese football player who was part of the Senegal national team that initially won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January 2026, defeating Morocco in a controversial final. He is newsworthy because despite the Confederation of African Football (CAF) later stripping Senegal of the title and awarding it to Morocco due to a walk-off protest during the final, Senegal still celebrated their initial victory. Mendy was photographed lifting the AFCON trophy at the Stade de France during a friendly match against Peru in March 2026. This event highlights the controversy and the ongoing fallout from the chaotic AFCON final, including fines and bans for players and coaches from both Senegal and Morocco. The incident has garnered significant attention, being described as "shameful" and a "terrible look" for African football.