Crystal Palace manager Vieira delighted for Senegal and Kouyate after AFCON glory | OneFootball

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira is delighted for Senegal and Cheikhou Kouyaté after the Lions of Teranga won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time.

Kouyaté and his compatriots overcame Egypt on penalties on Sunday night, with the Palace No. 8 playing 65 minutes. It is the first time they've lifted the AFCON trophy, and was their second final in a row.

Speaking on Monday, Vieira said: “I'm really happy for Cheikhou and for Senegal. We are talking about a big nation of football who managed to win its first Africa Cup of Nations. Senegal have had some wonderful generations of players and this is the first time they managed to win it.

“This is something people will always remember – the first generation to win AFCON. It is a really proud moment for Cheikhou and the rest of the players and they achieved something bigger than what they think it is.

“The first one people will always remember. The country, when you look at the way they celebrate, it's happiness. 'Finally, we get what we deserve,' that's what people have been saying. This is a proud moment he has to enjoy."

He also said: “I've got family, and still have friends out there and have been receiving videos. It's celebration time [for Senegal].

“People are in their cars, celebrating in the street. People are getting together and these moments bring people closer together. It's doesn't matter about the differences, the religion and this is why football is important. It's is a proud moment for Senegal.

“I think when the country comes together like that and wins an important competition it brings people together. That's why I think football is the best tool to bring people together. In that moment people forget their religions, differences, colour of skins and come together as one. That's what football does for the country."