Sport|Africa Cup of NationsSenegal appeal to CAS against handing over of AFCON title to MoroccoSenegal hope to overturn CAF’s decision to crown Morocco champions following a walkout by Senegalese players in the final.

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) concerning the decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to revoke Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and award it to Morocco. The appeal was confirmed by CAS on Wednesday.

The dispute arose after Senegal's players exited the pitch in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco during the AFCON final on January 18, which Senegal won 1-0 in extra time. CAF later upheld an appeal by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, citing a breach of tournament regulations by Senegal due to their walk-off, resulting in a 3-0 forfeit victory for Morocco.

Senegal's appeal seeks to overturn CAF's decision and reinstate their status as AFCON champions. CAS Director General Matthieu Reeb emphasized the commitment to a swift and fair arbitration process.

The final saw a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco in injury time after a VAR review. The decision led to a temporary suspension of the match as Senegalese players protested. Despite the disruption, the penalty was saved, and Senegal eventually secured victory with a goal in extra time.

The Moroccan federation stated that their appeal was focused on the enforcement of competition rules rather than contesting the teams' performances. CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressed support for the appeals process to CAS, reiterating respect for the final decision.

Both Senegal and Morocco are scheduled for friendly matches in preparation for the upcoming World Cup. Senegal will face Peru in Paris, while Morocco plays Ecuador in Madrid, followed by a match against Paraguay in Lens, France, on March 31.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.