Morocco Awarded Africa Cup of Nations Title After CAF Overturns Senegal’s Victory
In a stunning turn of events, Morocco has been declared the winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned Senegal’s original 1-0 victory in the January final. The decision, made by the CAF appeal board on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, results in a 3-0 default win for Morocco.
The Controversial Final and Subsequent Appeal
The initial final, held on January 18 in Rabat, was marked by controversy. During stoppage time, with the score tied 0-0, Morocco was awarded a penalty. Senegal’s players protested the decision and left the field for approximately 15 minutes, leading to a brief attempt by fans to storm the pitch. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz subsequently had his penalty saved by Édouard Mendy, and Senegal scored the winning goal in extra time.
Prior to the penalty, Senegal had a goal disallowed in the second minute of stoppage time due to a foul, a call that was disputed based on television replays showing minimal contact.
CAF’s Ruling and Senegal’s Forfeiture
The CAF appeal board ruled that Senegal “forfeited the Final” citing violations of competition regulations. According to a CAF statement, the decision stems from the Senegalese team’s conduct during the stoppage-time protest. Specifically, Article 84 of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations regulations was applied.
The appeal board upheld a protest lodged by the Moroccan federation (FRMF), finding that Senegal’s actions infringed upon Article 82 of the AFCON regulations. The FRMF stated their aim was not to challenge the sporting outcome but to ensure compliance with the rules.
Global Reaction to the Decision
The decision has sparked widespread reaction from media outlets around the world. Spanish sports newspapers Mundo Deportivo and AS described the situation as a “scandal” and an “unexpected turn of events,” respectively. Marca noted the decision came 57 days after the final match.
German publication Bild reported the ruling as a “real sensation” and suggested Senegal may appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. French newspaper L’Équipe quoted a press release from the Moroccan federation emphasizing their focus on regulatory compliance.
Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reacted with disbelief, stating, “No, it’s not April 1, but March 17. It’s not a joke.”
Potential Appeal
Senegal has the option to appeal the CAF’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).