Sport|Africa Cup of NationsSenegal instruct lawyers, while CAF’s Motsepe defends Morocco’s AFCON awardSenegal call for the lawyers as CAS awaits, while CAF president defends decision to hand AFCON title to Morocco.

The Senegalese Football Federation has announced its intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) following the reversal of its Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The title was awarded to Morocco on Tuesday, two months after the final match.

The Senegalese federation has authorized its legal representatives to challenge the decision at CAS. The federation's president, Abdoulaye Fall, confirmed the move during a news conference, stating, "Senegal will remain standing and will legitimately defend this victory."

The AFCON final, held in Rabat on January 18, was marked by controversy when several Senegalese players protested a penalty awarded to Morocco during stoppage time. Despite the protest, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal won the match 1-0 in extra time. However, CAF later declared Senegal to have forfeited the match, recording a 3-0 victory in favor of Morocco.

The decision to revoke Senegal's win has prompted calls for an independent international investigation into potential corruption. The Senegalese federation has resolved to use all available legal avenues to uphold its rights and ensure fair play. Meanwhile, the Moroccan Football Federation has expressed support for the decision, citing adherence to rules and stability in international competitions.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe addressed the situation, acknowledging ongoing trust issues within African football. He defended the Appeal Board's decision, emphasizing that both the disciplinary and appeal boards are independent entities composed of legal experts. Despite acknowledging Senegal's right to appeal, Motsepe reaffirmed CAF's commitment to impartiality and fair play, denying any preferential treatment.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.