The Confederation of African Football has officially recognised Morocco as champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following a controversial ruling that overturned the original final result.
CAF’s official records now list Morocco as winners of the tournament, with Senegal recorded as runners-up and Nigeria in third place.
The ruling came after a review by CAF’s Appeals Board on March 18, prompted by the events of the final played in Rabat. Initially, Senegal had secured a 1-0 victory in extra time, thanks to a goal by Pape Gueye.
However, the match descended into chaos when Senegal’s players staged a brief walk-off in protest of a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco.
CAF’s Appeals Board concluded that this constituted a forfeiture under the tournament’s regulations, and the final was officially recorded as a 3-0 win for Morocco, granting them their second continental title.
CAF stated that the decision was necessary to maintain the integrity of its rules. Nevertheless, the ruling has prompted debate among fans and analysts, with many questioning whether administrative interventions should override on-pitch results.
Meanwhile, Senegal’s football authorities condemned the verdict and have announced plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, although a final determination could take up to a year.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe defended the process, emphasising that no nation would receive special treatment and that strict adherence to competition rules is essential.
