The Senegalese Football Federation has formally rejected the Confederation of African Football’s Appeal Board ruling that declared Morocco champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and has confirmed it will take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The decision stems from the chaotic final played on January 19, 2026, in Rabat, where Senegal players briefly walked off the pitch in protest after a disallowed goal and a late penalty awarded to hosts Morocco. The CAF Appeal Board, in case DC23316 decided on March 17, 2026, overturned an earlier Disciplinary Board outcome and ruled that Senegal forfeited the match under Articles 82 and 84 of the tournament regulations, recording a 3-0 victory for Morocco.
In an official statement released on March 18, 2026, the FSF described the verdict as “unfair, unprecedented and unacceptable” and one that “discredits African football.” The federation noted that the Appeals Committee found Morocco’s protest admissible due to a procedural issue in the initial hearing—specifically that the appellant’s right to be heard had not been respected—and subsequently applied the forfeiture clauses.
Senegal’s statement confirmed: “To defend its rights and the interests of Senegalese football, the Federation will initiate, as soon as possible, an appeal procedure before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.” The FSF also reaffirmed its commitment to “the values of integrity and sporting justice” and promised to keep the public updated on developments.
The original final had ended in controversy when Senegal’s coach led the team off the field late in the game, prompting Morocco to lodge a formal complaint. CAF’s final ruling effectively handed the title to Morocco without a replay, a move that has sparked outrage among Senegalese fans and officials who argue the process lacked fairness.
This latest twist adds another chapter to the turbulent 2025 AFCON saga and raises questions about governance, protest rights, and the integrity of decision-making in African football.
As the appeal process begins, the football community waits to see whether the title will remain with Morocco or if Senegal’s challenge will force a review.