The CAF’s decision marks a seismic shift in African football governance. In an official statement released Tuesday evening, the governing body confirmed Senegal’s disqualification from the final, handing Morocco a 3-0 victory on forfeit. This follows the dramatic events of January 18, when the match—played in Morocco—ended in controversial circumstances.

Senegal’s walkout triggers historic ruling

The CAF’s appeals jury cited Senegal’s premature departure from the field as the primary reason for the forfeiture. With Morocco leading 1-0 after extra time, a missed penalty by Brahim Díaz—a catastrophic Panenka attempt—triggered a mass protest. The majority of Senegalese players abandoned the pitch and retreated to the locker rooms, while supporters, led by star player Sadio Mané, stormed the field, creating dangerous crowd disturbances and clashing with stewards.

The match briefly resumed only to witness Díaz’s penalty miss and subsequent extra time. Senegal’s Pape Gueye later admitted his regret over the Panenka failure, which had initially secured a thrilling victory for the Teranga Lions. However, the chaotic aftermath led to Senegal’s disqualification and Morocco’s retroactive triumph.

Morocco ends 49-year drought

The decision, unprecedented in continental football history, is expected to spark widespread reactions. Senegalese fans, who feel robbed of their triumph, will likely express deep frustration. Meanwhile, Moroccan supporters will celebrate the Atlas Lions’ first continental title since 1976, secured on home soil under Walid Regragui’s leadership (now replaced by Mohamed Ouahbi). Global football observers will also weigh in on this landmark ruling by the CAF’s appeals panel.

Saibari and Morocco face secondary sanctions

Beyond the headline ruling, the CAF confirmed sanctions against Moroccan midfielder Ismaël Saibari for stealing the opponent’s goalkeeper towel during the final. He received a two-match ban (one suspended) and an initial $100,000 fine, later waived. Additionally, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation was fined $50,000 for repeated misconduct by ball boys who repeatedly took the Senegalese goalkeeper’s towels during play.

While Morocco had appealed the initial CAF sanctions, deeming them too lenient toward Senegal, the Senegalese Football Federation chose not to contest the original ruling. However, with Tuesday’s verdict, the Senegalese federation may pursue further legal action by referring the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).