Senegal’s dramatic AFCON 2025 victory over Morocco has taken a controversial turn following claims by tournament winner Ismail Jakobs that three Senegalese players were struck by a mysterious illness on the eve of the final.

Speaking after Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time win in Rabat on January 18, 2026, the Galatasaray defender suggested that the incidents were suspicious, though he stopped short of directly accusing the host nation. His comments have sparked widespread debate and calls for clarity from African football authorities.

Jakobs revealed that Krepin Diatta, Ousseynou Niang, and Pape Matar Sarr suddenly fell ill in the build-up to the final, causing panic within the Senegal camp. According to him, the players collapsed at different moments—one in the dressing room, another during warm-up, and the third at half-time.

“My personal guess is that three of our players have been poisoned,” Jakobs said in an interview quoted by Fanatik, stressing that it did not resemble ordinary food poisoning. He described the situation as frightening, adding that the players were sweating heavily and unable to continue.

Despite the alleged setback, Senegal showed remarkable resilience on the pitch. They survived a disallowed goal, overcame a late penalty scare, and eventually edged the hosts to claim their second Africa Cup of Nations title.

The claims have divided opinion among fans, with some demanding a full investigation and others urging caution until official findings are released.

Meanwhile, celebrations continue in Senegal, where players are set to receive bonuses exceeding $130,000 each, along with plots of land, in recognition of their historic achievement.