"No one expected that Senegal will
beat France. But we did."
After the final whistle, delirious supporters poured out on to the streets shouting "we're going to eat chicken tonight" - a reference to the French side's cockerel emblem.
The country's president, Abdoulaye Wade, said he was never in doubt his side would achieve this great World Cup shock.
"Everyone who has listened will know that I'm not surprised. I
knew we were going to win," he said.
"They learned their trade, their technique, the science
of football in France.
"They have come to Senegal's side, a little like an apprentice who has learned his
lesson well, and then beats his master."
"What does surprise me," he added, "is that they
didn't score two goals.
"After this win - after beating France, the
world champions - the Lions can come back home.
"All the same, I want
to ask them to stay and defend the colours of Africa."
Teachers and children had been given the day off, adding to the atmosphere, and many businesses and shops had changed their opening hours to allow staff to watch the match.