Sport|FootballHow Senegal lost their AFCON title to Morocco and what next – all to knowAfter Morocco were awarded 2025 AFCON title, Senegal will appeal CAF’s decision; but how did we get here and what next?
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially revoked Senegal's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and awarded it to Morocco. This decision follows an incident during the final on January 18, where the match was delayed due to…
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially revoked Senegal's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and awarded it to Morocco. This decision follows an incident during the final on January 18, where the match was delayed due to Senegalese players leaving the field in protest of refereeing decisions.
Technical Review of the AFCON Final Controversy
The controversy arose following a penalty awarded to Morocco during stoppage time, leading to significant protests from the Senegalese team and management. A VAR review led to the award of the penalty, which was contested by the Senegalese players, resulting in their temporary exit from the field.
The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) plans to challenge the CAF Appeals Board's decision. It is anticipated that this legal process could extend beyond a year, potentially involving the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The decision to strip Senegal of the title was made by CAF's appeals board, citing article 82 of the tournament regulations. This article stipulates that if a team withdraws or leaves the ground without the referee's permission, it is considered a forfeit and is eliminated from the competition.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially revoked Senegal's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and awarded it to Morocco.
The match's official result was altered to a 3-0 victory in favor of Morocco, despite the initial score being 1-0 following extra time.
The FSF has labeled the decision as "unfair" and plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The federation has expressed its commitment to upholding integrity and sporting justice.
Morocco, under the guidance of coach Walid Regragui, is now set to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the African champions, pending any successful appeal by Senegal.
The decision has sparked reactions from various stakeholders, including the FSF's secretary-general, who has indicated plans to appeal the ruling. Senegalese players have also expressed their disagreement with the decision through social media.
This development comes as the Moroccan football team prepares for the World Cup, with recent changes in coaching staff following Regragui's departure after the AFCON final.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
