In a stunning development that has shaken African football, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially declared Morocco the winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
This decision comes after the CAF Appeal Board overturned the original result of the final match played on January 18 in Rabat, where Senegal had defeated the host nation 1-0 in extra time.
The ruling stems from a controversial incident during stoppage time when Senegal’s players walked off the pitch in protest over a late penalty awarded to Morocco, leading to a lengthy delay before play resumed and Senegal ultimately secured the win via Pape Gueye’s extra-time goal.
The CAF Appeal Board cited Article 84 of the AFCON Regulations in its decision, stating that Senegal’s actions constituted a forfeiture of the match.
As a result, the final has been retrospectively recorded as a 3-0 victory for Morocco, stripping Senegal of the title they had celebrated as their second AFCON triumph in recent years (following their 2021 success).
Morocco, who had lodged a formal protest following the chaotic events, now claim their first continental crown since 1976, marking a historic reversal that shifts the championship from on-field performance to an administrative outcome.
This unprecedented turn ensures Morocco hoist the AFCON trophy, closing one of the most dramatic chapters in the tournament’s history.
About The Author
