The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially recognized Morocco as the champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following a ruling by its Appeals Board that overturned the on-field result of the January 18 final in Rabat.
Originally, Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal. The match was marred by controversy, including a brief walk-off by Senegalese players protesting a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco.
CAF’s Appeals Board ruled that Senegal’s actions constituted a forfeit under Article 84 of the AFCON Regulations. Consequently, the final has been officially recorded as a 3-0 victory for Morocco, awarding the hosts their second continental title. Nigeria is listed as third place.
CAF stated, “The Senegal National Team is declared to have forfeited the Final Match… with the result of the Match being recorded as 3–0 in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.”
The ruling has drawn criticism, with many arguing it undermines the game played on the pitch. Senegal’s football federation condemned the decision and confirmed it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), a process that could take up to a year.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe defended the decision, emphasizing fairness and adherence to competition regulations, asserting that no nation will be favored.
