Africa Cup 2025 Full of Controversy, Senegal Title Transferred to Morocco
Source: Antara News
A night of peak glory has now become the most controversial chapter in Africa Cup history. The AFCON 2025 championship title once held by Senegal National Team has been officially stripped, turning victory into defeat and euphoria into prolonged controversy.
The decision was announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after the Appeals Board took firm action regarding the final match incident.
"The Appeals Board decided based on Article 84 of the Africa Cup Regulations that Senegal National Team is declared defeated in the AFCON 2025 final, with the Match Result recorded as 3-0 in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF)," CAF stated to NBC on Wednesday.
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With this ruling, Morocco National Team is designated as AFCON 2025 champions, not through on-field goals but via administrative decision following Senegal's walk-off in the final.
The final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on January 18, 2026 originally ended with Senegal's 1-0 victory through Pape Gueye's extra-time goal. However, this result is now completely nullified.
CAF confirmed that the appeal filed by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was accepted, simultaneously overturning the initial ruling from CAF's Disciplinary Committee.
“The appeal submitted by FRMF is formally declared admissible and granted. The decision of CAF's Disciplinary Committee is annulled.”
Controversy erupted from a crucial moment in the final minutes when Brahim Diaz was brought down in the penalty area. After VAR review, the referee awarded Morocco a penalty. This decision triggered strong reactions from Senegal's camp.
The situation escalated after coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players to leave the pitch. This action became the primary basis for sanctions.
“CAF's Appeals Board determined Senegal's actions fall under Articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup Regulations.”
CAF also deemed Senegal's conduct during the match violated tournament regulations.
With this decision, Senegal not only loses the trophy but also its place in history as champions.
Conversely, Morocco claims the title in an unconventional manner, concluding the tournament with a 3-0 forfeit victory.
