RABAT, Morocco — In an unprecedented decision that has sent shockwaves across the continent, the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) Appeal Board has officially overturned the result of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Final.
Morocco has been declared the winner with a retrospective 3-0 forfeit victory, stripping Senegal of the trophy following a controversial player walk-off during the final match in Rabat.
The Controversy: A Walk-Off in Rabat
The roots of this historic ruling trace back to a chaotic night at the Stade Moulay Abdellah. With the match deadlocked in extra time, a late VAR intervention awarded Morocco a penalty after Brahim Diaz was brought down in the box.
The decision ignited a furious protest from the Senegalese bench. Under the instruction of head coach Pape Thiaw, the Lions of Teranga refused to continue play and retreated to the dressing room. Despite attempts by officials to resume the game, the match was eventually abandoned, leading to a legal battle that has now concluded in the highest rooms of CAF governance.
The CAF Appeal Board Ruling
The CAF Appeal Board’s decision sets aside the previous Disciplinary Board ruling, citing strict adherence to competition regulations.
“The CAF Appeal Board finds that the conduct of the Senegal team falls within the scope of Articles 82 and 84 of the Regulations of the Africa Cup of Nations,” the statement read.
Key points from the official CAF verdict:
- Result Overturned: The final score is officially recorded as 3-0 in favor of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF).
- Article 82 Violation: Senegal was found to have infringed regulations regarding team conduct and match integrity.
- Forfeiture: Under Article 84, the act of leaving the pitch constitutes an automatic forfeiture.
- Appeal Upheld: The protest lodged by the Moroccan federation (FRMF) was declared “admissible in form” and fully upheld.
What This Means for African Football
This landmark ruling marks the first time in history that an AFCON final result has been overturned in the boardroom. While Morocco celebrates its second continental star on home soil, the decision leaves the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) facing potential further sanctions and a period of intense reflection following their protest.
