The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has announced it will challenge CAF’s decision to strip them of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and award it to Morocco.
CAF’s Ruling and Senegal’s Protest
CAF ruled that Senegal forfeited the final after their players walked off the pitch in protest over a controversial penalty decision. The walk-off followed a disallowed goal and a penalty awarded to Morocco during extra time. Despite Senegal’s victory on the field, CAF’s disciplinary committee declared the match a forfeit and awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory.
Senegal’s Strong Reaction
Senegal’s government has condemned CAF’s decision, calling it “unjust” and “manifestly erroneous”. In a public statement, they denounced the decision, stating that it was an attempt to dispossess Senegal of their rightful win. The government added that the decision was “exceptionally serious” and based on a flawed interpretation of the rules.
“We unequivocally reject this decision,” the statement read, stressing the injustice of the ruling and the potential long-term damage to African football.
FSF Files Appeal at CAS
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), led by Abdoulaye Seydou Sow, has made clear that they will file an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Sow criticized CAF’s handling of the situation, claiming that CAF’s Appeals Committee failed to uphold the law in their ruling and likely acted under external pressure.
“We will not stop fighting for our rights,” Sow added. “This decision is a breach of trust and a clear violation of the law.” The FSF reaffirmed its commitment to justice, vowing to pursue all legal avenues available to them.
Idrissa Gana Gueye’s Statement
Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye echoed the sentiments of his teammates, writing on social media: “We know what we experienced that evening in Rabat. No one can take that away from us, inshallah.” Gueye expressed confidence in Senegal’s victory, regardless of CAF’s ruling, and highlighted the team’s dignity in both victory and defeat.
Wider Criticism of CAF’s Decision
The ruling has raised concerns within African football. Raymond Hack, a former CAF disciplinary chief, has pointed out that the decision raises questions about political interference. Hack noted that Moroccan FA president Fouzi Lekjaa, who also serves as CAF’s first vice-president, may have influenced the decision.
“Football should be decided on the field, not in boardrooms,” Hack said, emphasizing that the outcome of the match should not be determined by administrative decisions but by what happens during the game.
FIFA’s Involvement
FIFA has been alerted to the situation but has yet to make any official statement regarding CAF’s decision. While FIFA president Gianni Infantino has expressed concern about the rising tensions between CAF and the FSF, the matter is likely to be examined further in the coming months.
The Bigger Picture
This dispute has highlighted broader concerns about governance within CAF and its disciplinary processes. Senegal’s insistence on defending their title signals a strong commitment to protecting the integrity of the competition. The case is likely to influence future CAF regulations and possibly spark reforms within African football governance.
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