His statements were short. “The cup, or you reimburse the money that’s been invested in you,” the Guinean President told the players, as quoted by African Insider. The post was shared many times because of the personality of the leader and the context.

However, upon return the situation as expected was a bit easier. According to reports, Doumbouya congratulated the team for their performance. He also told them that, the earlier tough statement was just to push them to strive harder. However, the President said the funds allocated to the team should be partially refunded. According to him, the money given to the team covered Quarterfinals, Semi-final and final games and that must be returned to the state coffers as soon as possible.