MWE Correspondent
Senegal were crowned champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night, bringing the curtain down on a dramatic tournament and officially setting the stage for East Africa to host the next edition of the continent’s biggest football event, the Africa Cup of Nations.
The final whistle did not only confirm Senegal as the new kings of African football, but also marked an important transition moment for the Confederation of African Football (CAF), as hosting responsibilities were formally handed over to Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The symbolic CAF flag was presented immediately after the final, signaling the start of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Senegal’s victory was the result of a disciplined and determined campaign that reflected the country’s steady rise in African football over the past decade. Throughout the tournament, the Senegal national football team demonstrated tactical intelligence, defensive strength and calmness under pressure, qualities that ultimately proved decisive in the final. Their triumph further cements Senegal’s status as one of Africa’s most respected football nations, following a series of strong performances in recent continental and international competitions.
As celebrations continued on the pitch, attention quickly shifted to the historic handover ceremony. For the first time in the tournament’s history, three countries will jointly host AFCON, a move widely regarded as a major step forward for football development in East Africa. Officials from the host nations received the CAF flag in front of African football leaders, players and a global television audience, highlighting the significance of the moment for the region.
For Tanzania, the occasion carried particular weight. The CAF flag was received by the President of the Tanzania Football Federation, Wallace Karia, together with the Minister responsible for sports, Paul Makonda. Their presence symbolized the country’s readiness to play a central role in hosting the tournament and its broader commitment to developing football infrastructure and administration.
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The 2027 tournament is expected to deliver benefits that extend far beyond the pitch. Governments and football authorities anticipate improvements in stadium facilities, transport systems and tourism, alongside increased employment opportunities and stronger regional cooperation. Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have already begun coordinating plans to ensure venues and services meet CAF’s technical and organizational standards.
CAF leadership has expressed confidence in the three nations’ ability to deliver a successful tournament, pointing to the region’s growing passion for football and its strategic importance in expanding the game across Africa. The joint-hosting arrangement is also viewed as a model that promotes unity, shared responsibility and sustainable development.
As Senegal celebrate their continental success, the rest of Africa now looks ahead. With the trophy lifted and the hosting flag officially passed on, attention turns to 2027, when East Africa will welcome the continent and showcase its culture, hospitality and commitment to the beautiful game.
