Morocco Awarded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Title After Senegal Forfeit

Morocco has been declared the winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a stunning decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to overturn Senegal’s victory in the January final. The ruling, announced on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, stems from Senegal’s protest during the match and subsequent walk-off.

The Controversial Final and Senegal’s Protest

The dramatic events unfolded during the AFCON final held on January 18 in Rabat. Senegal players, led by coach Pape Thiaw, left the field in stoppage time for 15 minutes in protest after Morocco was awarded a penalty. This prompted a brief pitch invasion by fans. Although play resumed, and Senegal ultimately won 1-0 in extra time with a goal from Pape Gueye, the incident sparked immediate controversy.

Tensions had been rising prior to the penalty decision. Senegal had a goal disallowed in the second minute of stoppage time, with television replays suggesting minimal contact on the foul called against Abdoulaye Seck.

CAF’s Ruling and Article 82

CAF’s appeal board ruled that Senegal “declared to have forfeited the Final,” resulting in a 3-0 default win for Morocco. The decision is based on Article 82 of CAF’s regulations, which states that a team that withdraws from a competition, fails to report for a match, refuses to play, or leaves the ground before the regular conclude of the match without the referee’s authorization will be considered a loser and eliminated from the competition. Article 84 further stipulates a 3-0 loss for violations of Article 82.

Initial Sanctions and Reactions

Prior to this latest ruling, both Senegal and Morocco had already faced disciplinary action. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw received a five-game suspension, whereas players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were handed two-game suspensions. The Senegalese Football Federation was also fined. Morocco players Ismael Saibari and Achraf Hakimi were initially sanctioned for interfering with Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy’s towel, but Hakimi’s suspension was later reduced.

Senegal defender Moussa Niakhaté posted on Instagram with a picture of the trophy, stating, “Come and receive it! They’re crazy!” West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf echoed the sentiment with a celebratory post.

Morocco’s Response and Potential Appeal

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) welcomed the decision, stating that their appeal was not intended to challenge the sporting performance of the teams but to ensure the application of competition regulations.

Senegal could appeal CAF’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, but has yet to formally respond to the ruling.

A Historic and Unprecedented Decision

This ruling marks an unprecedented event in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations and international football. It concludes Morocco’s 49-year wait for a continental title, not on the field, but through a boardroom decision.