Ahead of the clash between OM and Nice, Yéhvann Diouf opened up about a season marked by significant highs and lows. The Sénégal international, who has experienced various shifts in his role this year, identified the Africa Cup of Nations final against Maroc as the defining moment of his recent career.

« It was an incredible match, the former Reims goalkeeper explained. Like many others, I would have preferred a different atmosphere—one where the victory was clear and the image of our federations and the continent wasn’t tarnished by controversy. Ultimately, however, what matters most to me is that the game reached its conclusion and Sénégal emerged victorious on the pitch. »

Three months after the Africa Cup of Nations final between Sénégal and Maroc, Yéhvann Diouf recounted his experience, specifically addressing the incident that occurred late in the game.

Diouf remains focused on the sporting achievement of the Lions of Teranga, who won the match 1-0 in extra time thanks to a goal from Pape Gueye. He chooses to look past the subsequent administrative turmoil, where CAF awarded the win to Maroc—a dispute that has now moved to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Sénégal-Maroc: a security lapse that shouldn’t have happened

The Nice goalkeeper was at the heart of the action during a particularly strange moment that went viral: the “towel incident.” Diouf stepped in to prevent Moroccan players from taking a towel belonging to Edouard Mendy.

« I only realized the impact of that moment when I got back and people kept bringing it up to thank me, the player shared. My only goal was to ensure Edouard (Mendy) stayed in the best possible mental state. While some see the folklore or the humor in it, it’s something that should never have taken place. My personal safety was at risk during that confrontation. »