CAF Officially Names Morocco Champions
CAF has officially confirmed Morocco as winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The update appeared on CAF’s official website, where Morocco now appear as champions and Senegal as runners-up.
Appeals Board Overturns Final Result
The decision follows a ruling by CAF’s Appeals Board on March 18. The board nullified the result of the final played in Rabat on January 18.
Senegal had originally won the match 1-0 after extra time. Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in that encounter.
Walk-Off Sparks Controversy
The match turned controversial late in the game. Senegal players briefly walked off the pitch after a stoppage-time penalty was awarded to Morocco.
CAF ruled that this action breached its regulations. The Appeals Board then applied Article 84 of the AFCON rules.
Forfeit Decision Explained
CAF declared the match forfeited and awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory.
In its statement, CAF said Senegal forfeited the final match and confirmed the result in favour of Morocco.
Reactions and Ongoing Dispute
The ruling has sparked strong debate across the football community. Critics argue that the decision undermines the result achieved on the pitch.
Senegal’s football federation has rejected the outcome. It has also confirmed plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
CAF Defends Decision
CAF President Patrice Motsepe defended the process. He said the decision followed fairness and strict adherence to regulations.
He also stressed that CAF does not favour any country and remains committed to protecting the integrity of the competition.
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