The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has formally acknowledged Senegal’s appeal against the controversial decision to strip them of their Africa Cup of Nations title, promising a swift resolution to the high-stakes dispute. The contentious ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned Senegal’s dramatic 1-0 victory over Morocco in the January 18th final, instead awarding the match to Morocco with an official 3-0 forfeit scoreline.
The controversy erupted during the championship’s final moments when match officials awarded a stoppage-time penalty to host nation Morocco. This decision prompted Senegal’s entire team to stage a walk-off protest from the pitch before eventually returning to complete the match. Following an official protest lodged by the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), CAF’s disciplinary committee determined that Senegal’s actions constituted a match forfeiture under competition regulations.
CAS Director General Matthieu Reeb emphasized the urgency of the proceedings while maintaining procedural integrity: “We understand that teams and fans are eager to know the final decision, and we will ensure that arbitration proceedings are conducted as swiftly as possible, while respecting the right of all parties to a fair hearing.” The court confirmed however that no specific timeline for a verdict has been established at this preliminary stage.
Legal experts familiar with sports arbitration suggest the process could extend for several months. Raymond Hack, former head of CAF’s disciplinary panel, projected the appeal might require up to six months to resolve, potentially placing the decision’s timing during the upcoming World Cup tournament. The outcome will determine whether Senegal retains what they believed was their second AFCON championship or whether Morocco will be officially crowned the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations winner.