Senegal's reserve goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, has captured the hearts of football fans across Africa and beyond for his unexpected role as a protector during the tense 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. The Teranga Lions clinched their second continental title in five years with a dramatic 1-0 victory over host nation Morocco, but a subplot involving a goalkeeper's towel has become a major talking point.
Chaotic Final Moments and a Decisive Save
The final, played on January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, was decided in stoppage time. Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye scored the only goal in the 94th minute, sending Senegalese fans into delirium. However, the drama was far from over.
Chaos erupted when referee Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty in the 90+7th minute, shortly after disallowing a Senegalese goal. The decision prompted furious protests from the Senegal camp, with head coach Pape Thiaw initially calling for his team to boycott the match. It took the intervention of veteran star Sadio Mane to calm his teammates and persuade them to return to the pitch.
The penalty, taken in the 90+24th minute by Real Madrid's Brahim Díaz, was saved by Senegal's first-choice keeper, Edouard Mendy, after Díaz attempted a chipped shot. This save sealed the historic victory for Senegal.
Diouf Steps Up as Mendy's 'Bodyguard'
Amidst the high-pressure environment, a different battle was unfolding near Mendy's goal. A viral video shared on social media platform X showed reserve goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf taking on an unusual duty. The Nice shot-stopper positioned himself as a guardian for Mendy, specifically to protect his teammate's towel from being taken by Moroccan ball retrievers and officials.
Goalkeepers frequently use towels to dry their hands and the ball to maintain a secure grip, especially in crucial moments. Throughout the match, individuals reportedly targeted Mendy's towel in an attempt to disrupt his focus. Diouf repeatedly intervened, physically blocking the attempts and engaging in confrontations to ensure Mendy had access to his equipment.
His vigilant actions eventually led to him being escorted away from the playing area by a Moroccan match official after a series of alleged altercations. This incident mirrored a similar event in the semi-final, where a steward tried to take the towel of Nigeria's goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali.
Social Media Erupts in Praise and Controversy
The footage of Diouf's dedication sparked a massive reaction online. Many fans hailed him as a hero for his team-first mentality.
One user, @joshua_terwase, commented: "Moroccans fought too dirty throughout this tournament... kudos to [Senegal] for returning the favour of mind games and dirty tactics."
Another fan, @gelsonluz, added: "Every team needs a Yehvann Diouf. That kind of dedication... is the heart of the game."
However, the incident also raised questions about the rules. User @manutdazza pointed out that substitutes are typically not permitted to be behind the goal area during active play, suggesting Diouf's presence itself was a breach of regulations.
Despite the late-game controversy and mind games, Senegal held firm to be crowned champions of Africa for 2025, with Yehvann Diouf's unsung role in protecting his teammate's focus becoming an enduring symbol of squad unity and determination.
