Bolatito Mercy
Senegal is pushing back against the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to strip them of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, won after defeating Morocco 1-0 in the final. The CAF Appeals Board ruled that Senegal forfeited the match due to their players walking off the pitch in protest against a late penalty awarded to Morocco, resulting in a 3-0 win for Morocco.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has condemned the decision, calling it “unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable” and plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. The FSF argues that the decision discredits African football and undermines the integrity of the sport .
Senegal’s government has also called for an international investigation into suspected corruption within CAF’s leadership, stating that the decision was “grossly illegal and profoundly unjust”. The government expressed disappointment and dismay over the ruling, emphasizing that Senegal cannot tolerate an administrative decision erasing their sporting achievement.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe has defended the decision, stating that the organization has high standards and that the decision was made by respected lawyers and judges with integrity. Motsepe emphasized that CAF’s judicial bodies are impartial and that no country will receive preferential treatment.
The controversy stems from the chaotic scenes during the final, where Senegal’s players walked off the pitch for about 14 minutes in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco. The players eventually returned, and Senegal went on to win the match in extra time. However, CAF’s Appeals Board ruled that Senegal’s actions constituted a forfeit, resulting in Morocco being awarded the title.
Senegal’s players have mocked the decision on social media, with some joking about the situation. Midfielder Pathe Ciss posted a sarcastic message, saying “You can add three goals in favor of the whiners, but we are the 2025 CHAMPIONS of Africa.
The FSF has reaffirmed its commitment to the values of integrity and sporting justice, vowing to keep the public informed of developments in the case. The appeal to CAS is expected to be filed soon, and the outcome is uncertain.
