In a stunning turn of events, the Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has reversed the result of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Three months after the final, CAF ruled in favour of Morocco, stripping Senegal of the title.
Senegal’s Protest and the Reversal
Senegal, whose team includes Sadio Mané, had initially left the pitch in protest against the refereeing during the final. The protest was triggered by a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco in the final minutes of the match.
Senegal did return to the field. Brahim Díaz missed the penalty, but Senegal still managed to win in extra time, securing what they thought was their second title.
However, the CAF Appeal Commission has now decided to apply Article 84 of the CAF African Cup of Nations Regulations. The decision declares Senegal to have lost the final by default due to forfeit.
CAF’s Decision Explained
The CAF Appeal Commission declared that the national team of Senegal lost the CAF TotalEnergies (AFCON) Morocco 2025 final due to Senegal’s forfeit. The result of the match is recorded as 3-0 in favour of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).
FRMF’s Appeal and CAF’s Resolutions
The FRMF presented an appeal regarding the application of Articles 82 and 84 of the CAF African Cup of Nations Regulations. In response, the CAF Appeal Commission has made several resolutions.
- Senegal is considered to have lost the final by default.
- The match result is recorded as 3-0 in favour of Morocco.
All other motions or requests for compensation have been dismissed.
Both Morocco and Senegal are still qualified for the 2026 World Cup.