In an unprecedented decision that has sent shockwaves through African football, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially overturned the result of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, declaring Morocco as champions instead of original winners Senegal.
The controversial final, played on January 18, 2025, saw Senegal initially claim a 1-0 victory after extra time. The match descended into chaos during stoppage time when Senegalese players staged a walk-off protest following the award of a penalty to Morocco with the score at 0-0. After approximately 17 minutes of delay, play resumed with Moroccan forward Brahim Diaz seeing his spot-kick saved before Senegal’s Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in extra time.
CAF’s disciplinary committee ruled that Senegal’s actions constituted a violation of Article 82 of the tournament regulations, which mandates that any team refusing to play or leaving the field without official authorization shall be considered the loser. The governing body further invoked Article 84, which stipulates a 3-0 forfeit for such violations.
The decision comes after a formal appeal from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), which CAF deemed admissible. The ruling effectively strips Senegal of what would have been their second AFCON title following their 2021 triumph and awards Morocco their third continental championship.
This landmark verdict represents one of the most significant disciplinary actions in the history of African football, setting a firm precedent regarding player conduct and tournament regulations. The outcome has sparked intense debate across the football community regarding the balance between competitive spirit and regulatory compliance in high-stakes matches.