CAF Stands by AFCON 2025 Verdict, Confirms Morocco as Champions

West Africa WeeklyMarch 24, 20262 Mins read30

The Confederation of African Football has reaffirmed its controversial decision to recognise Morocco as winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, maintaining its position despite growing backlash from Senegal and sections of the African football community. The latest statement from CAF comes as the governing body seeks to clarify its stance following weeks of dispute over the outcome of the final.

The controversy stems from events during the final match in Rabat, where Senegal faced Morocco in what was initially seen as a tightly contested game. Senegal went on to secure a 1–0 victory after extra time, appearing to clinch the title on the pitch. However, the match took a dramatic turn late in regulation time when Senegalese players briefly walked off in protest over a contentious penalty decision awarded to Morocco.

Although the team later returned to complete the match, CAF ruled that the temporary walkout constituted a breach of its regulations. According to the organisation’s disciplinary code, any team that leaves the field of play without authorization can be deemed to have forfeited the match, regardless of whether play resumes. Based on this interpretation, CAF overturned the result and awarded Morocco a 3–0 victory by default.

In its updated communication, CAF confirmed that its official records now list Morocco as champions of the tournament, with Senegal as runners up and Nigeria finishing in third place. The governing body insisted that its decision was guided strictly by existing rules and aimed at preserving discipline and order in continental competitions.

Senegal’s football authorities have strongly rejected the ruling, describing it as unjust and inconsistent with the spirit of the game. Officials argue that the team fulfilled its obligation by returning to the pitch and completing the match, and that the result on the field should stand. The Senegalese Football Federation has since initiated steps to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, setting up what could become a prolonged legal battle.

The dispute has sparked widespread debate across Africa, with fans, analysts and former players questioning CAF’s handling of the situation. Critics argue that the decision undermines the integrity of the competition and sets a troubling precedent for how similar incidents may be judged in the future. Others, however, support CAF’s strict interpretation of the rules, emphasizing the need for discipline and adherence to established regulations.

As the case moves toward international arbitration, the situation remains unresolved in the eyes of many supporters. While Morocco has accepted the ruling and been officially recognised as champions, Senegal continues to contest the decision, leaving the legacy of the 2025 AFCON final clouded by controversy.