Morocco Awarded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Title After Senegal Forfeit

Morocco has been declared the champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned Senegal’s victory in the controversial final held on January 18, 2026. The decision stems from Senegal’s walk-off during the match in protest of a late penalty awarded to Morocco.

The Controversial Final and Senegal’s Walk-Off

The match between Morocco and Senegal ended 1-0 in favor of Senegal, with Pape Gueye scoring the winning goal in extra time. However, the game was marred by controversy when a penalty was awarded to Morocco in the 83rd minute. Angered by the decision, Senegal’s head coach, Pape Thiaw, ordered his players off the pitch. Play was suspended for 14 minutes, during which time Senegalese fans invaded the field, clashing with Moroccan fans and police. Though the players eventually returned, Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and Senegal ultimately secured the win.

CAF’s Decision and Article 82 & 84

CAF upheld an appeal by the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), declaring Senegal to have forfeited the final match. The decision is based on Article 82 of CAF’s regulations, which states that if a team withdraws from a competition, fails to report for a match, refuses to play, or leaves the ground before the regular complete of the match without the referee’s authorization, they shall be considered losers and eliminated from the competition. Article 84 further stipulates that any team violating Article 82 will be awarded a 3-0 loss.

Senegal’s Response and Potential Appeal

The Senegalese Football Federation has announced its intention to appeal CAF’s decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, deeming it “unfair, unprecedented and unacceptable.”

FRMF’s Statement

The FRMF stated that its appeal was not intended to challenge the sporting performance of either team but rather to ensure the application of the competition’s regulations. The federation reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the rules and maintaining stability within African competitions.

Impact and Historical Significance

This ruling marks Morocco’s first AFCON title since 1976. While the on-field celebration of Senegal’s victory remains vivid in the memories of those who witnessed it, the official record now reflects a 3-0 win for Morocco. BBC Sport reports that the decision will not erase the emotional impact of the match for those who experienced it firsthand.

Key Takeaways

• Morocco has been awarded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title due to Senegal’s forfeit.
• The decision is based on CAF regulations regarding team conduct and leaving the field of play.
• Senegal plans to appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
• This is Morocco’s first AFCON title in nearly 50 years.

Sources: CBS Sports, BBC Sport, NBC Sports, CNN