Tensions continue to escalate between Morocco and Senegal following a controversial ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Board over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The CAF Appeals Committee overturned a previous disciplinary decision, ruling that Senegal forfeited the final after its players walked off the pitch in the closing minutes of the match in Rabat. The verdict awarded Morocco a 3–0 victory, igniting heated debate across the African football community.
In response, the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) issued a statement acknowledging the CAF ruling. The Moroccan federation emphasized that its appeal sought to ensure the correct application of competition rules, not to challenge the sporting performance of any team.
“The Federation reiterates that its approach has always been grounded in respect for the rules and the stability of African competitions,” the FRMF said. The statement also praised all participating nations and described the tournament as a significant milestone for African football development, while promising further clarification on any potential legal or administrative steps.
Meanwhile, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) strongly condemned the decision, calling it “unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable” and warning that it undermines the credibility of African football.
“The Senegalese Football Federation denounces this unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable decision, which discredits African football,” the FSF said in a statement.
Senegal confirmed that it would appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne to defend the rights and interests of its national team.
“To defend its rights and the interests of Senegalese football, the Federation will initiate an appeal as soon as possible before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne,” the statement added.
The FSF reiterated its commitment to integrity and sporting justice, pledging to keep the public informed of developments as the case proceeds.
The controversy has reignited discussions about governance, transparency, and regulatory consistency in CAF competitions. Analysts and stakeholders have criticized the ruling as an embarrassment for African football and are calling for clearer rules and more transparent decision-making processes to prevent similar disputes in the future.
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