Morocco Awarded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Title After Senegal Forfeit

In a stunning turn of events, Morocco has been declared the champion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned Senegal’s initial 1-0 victory. The decision, announced on Tuesday, stems from Senegal’s protest during the final match in January, leading to a forfeit.

Senegal’s Walk-Off and Subsequent Ruling

The controversy unfolded during the January 18 final in Rabat, where Senegal players, led by coach Pape Thiaw, walked off the pitch in protest against a late penalty awarded to Morocco. The protest occurred during stoppage time, and fans attempted to storm the field ESPN.

After a 15-minute delay, Morocco’s Brahim Díaz took the penalty, which was saved by Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. Senegal ultimately scored the winning goal in extra time. However, the CAF appeal board ruled that Senegal “declared to have forfeited” the match, officially recording the result as a 3-0 win for Morocco AP News.

Previous Disciplinary Actions

Prior to this ruling, CAF had imposed fines exceeding $1 million and bans on players and officials from both Senegal and Morocco following a disciplinary hearing in January. However, the initial result of the match had been left unchanged at that time ESPN.

Further Appeals Possible

The decision by the CAF appeal board is not necessarily final. The case could be further appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport ESPN.

Controversial Moments in the Final

The match was marked by several contentious incidents. Senegal had a goal disallowed in the closing minutes of regulation time after a foul was called on Abdoulaye Seck, despite television replays suggesting minimal contact with Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi ESPN. There were reports of scuffles between players on the sidelines, clashes between reporters, and attempts by Moroccan ball boys to distract Senegal’s goalkeeper ESPN.

Senegal defender Moussa Niakhaté posted on Instagram after the initial match, stating “Come and get it! They’re crazy!” whereas left back El Hadj Malick Diouf added: “It’s not what I expected … This thing isn’t going anywhere….” ESPN.