President Macky Sall bestowed all members of Senegal's soccer team with the country's top honor, a cash prize and a plot of land in the capital, after they won their first ever Africa Cup of Nations
Senegal's first win of the coveted trophy it has been chasing for 60 years has led to an outpouring of joy and celebrations since the 4-2 triumph in a penalty kick shootout.
Tens of thousands lined the streets of the capital Dakar from early in the morning on Monday to await the arrival of the victorious team. A ticker-tape parade through the streets went into the early hours of Tuesday.Senegal came close to winning the trophy twice, losing to Algeria in the 2019 final and to Cameroon in the 2002 final.Senegal fans celebrate and welcome the Senegal National Soccer Team as they arrive in a bus after their Africa Cup win, in Dakar, Senegal February 7, 2022.
Sall awarded the players Senegal's highest order, making them Grand Officers of the National Order of the Lion. "In addition, as a token of gratitude, and on behalf of the nation, the players and other members of the official delegation will each receive a special bonus of 50 million franc CFA and a 200 square metre plot of land in Dakar," Sall said.
He added that they would also receive a 500 square metre plot for a commemorative estate in Diamniadio, a new futuristic economic and industrial hub around 45 km from Dakar where a new national soccer stadium will be inaugurated on Feb. 22.Reporting by Ngouda Dione and Diadie Ba Writing by Bate Felix; editing by Grant McCoolSubscribe to our daily curated newsletter to receive the latest exclusive Reuters coverage delivered to your inbox.