Morocco Crowned AFCON Champions After Senegal Stripped of Title

Morocco has been awarded the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations title after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board overturned Senegal’s victory from the January final. The decision stems from Senegal’s protest during the match, which involved walking off the pitch in disagreement with a late penalty awarded to Morocco ESPN.

The Controversial Final and Senegal’s Protest

The incident occurred in the closing stages of regulation time during the final held in Rabat. After a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco following a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Senegal’s players, led by coach Pape Thiaw, immediately protested the decision and left the field for approximately 15 minutes The Guardian.

Despite the protest and the subsequent return of the Senegal team, the match continued. Morocco’s penalty was saved by goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, and Senegal eventually won the match 1-0 in extra time thanks to a goal from Pape Gueye. However, Morocco appealed the result to CAF.

CAF’s Ruling and the Forfeiture

The CAF Appeal Board ruled that Senegal had “forfeited the final” and the result was recorded as a 3-0 victory for Morocco Sky Sports. The decision is based on Articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations regulations, which address teams refusing to continue play or leaving the field without authorization NBC News.

Senegal’s Response and Potential Further Appeal

Senegal has announced its intention to appeal the CAF’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking to overturn Tuesday’s ruling.

Additional Penalties and Consequences

CAF also imposed financial penalties related to the incident. A $100,000 fine on Morocco striker Ismael Saibari was set aside, and his suspension was reduced to one match. The fine imposed on Morocco for ball boys attempting to steal the Senegal goalkeeper’s towel was reduced to $50,000. However, the $100,000 fine for Morocco’s attempts to interfere with the VAR process remains in place The Guardian.

Morocco’s coach, Walid Regragui, has since resigned from his position, just months before the World Cup, where both Morocco and Senegal have qualified.

Morocco’s Second AFCON Title

This ruling marks Morocco’s second Africa Cup of Nations title, 50 years after their first victory.