The Moroccan player described as Brahim Diaz reacts with visible sadness after missing a penalty in the final minutes of regular time during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Senegal. Comforted by members of the coaching staff and teammates, the scene reflects the emotional intensity and disappointment following the decisive moment of the match. January 18, 2026. Photo by Kevin Ngandu Katayi/ABACAPRESS.COM
Nearly two months after the thrilling African Cup of Nations 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal, the controversy refuses to fade. Though the Lions of Teranga had clinched a dramatic victory in extra time, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has since overruled the result, declaring Morocco the winner by forfeit.
Why the CAF handed Morocco the title
The CAF’s decision hinges on Article 84 of the CAN regulations, which states that any team leaving the field before the final whistle without referee approval is deemed to have forfeited the match. This rule was triggered when Senegal walked off the pitch in Rabat after disputing a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation swiftly filed an appeal, arguing that the incident violated the integrity of African football competitions. « This is not just about one match—it’s about preventing the normalization of such disruptions, » stated a federation spokesperson. The appeal referenced similar past cases, including the 2018–19 CAF Champions League final between Wydad Casablanca and Espérance Tunis.
The chaotic finale that led to the forfeit
With the score tied 0–0 in regulation, Morocco earned a contentious penalty after a collision between Senegal’s Ismaïla Sarr and Brahim Díaz. The decision sparked outrage among the Senegalese players, who believed they had been denied a clear penalty earlier in the game.
Under the guidance of coach Pape Thiaw, the Lions of Teranga stormed off the field in protest. Only Sadio Mané remained, later convincing his teammates to return after discussions with former France coach Claude Le Roy, who was present at the stadium.
The match took an even wilder turn when Brahim Díaz missed the penalty with a panenka attempt. However, Pape Gueye restored Senegal’s lead in extra time with a stunning left-footed strike, seemingly sealing their victory—until the CAF’s intervention.
What’s next for Senegal?
Despite the setback, Senegal has vowed to challenge the decision. The Senegalese Football Federation has announced plans to file an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within ten days, calling the ruling « unjust, unprecedented, and unacceptable. »
« We will defend our rights and the integrity of Senegalese football, » the federation stated in a statement. Meanwhile, Morocco has accepted the decision, emphasizing « the importance of rules, transparency, and the stability of African competitions. »
A CAS ruling in a similar case—the 2018–19 CAF Champions League—favored Morocco, where Wydad Casablanca was penalized for a pitch protest, resulting in Espérance Tunis being awarded the title. Analysts suggest history may repeat itself.
Public reaction: fury and disbelief
Senegalese players and fans have expressed outrage. Defender Moussa Niakhaté mocked the decision on social media, posting a photo with the trophy and writing, « Come get them! They’re crazy. » Midfielder Pape Demba Diop echoed the sentiment, tweeting, « We’re in the twilight zone. »
Yehvann Diouf, goalkeeper for OGC Nice, shared a team photo with the caption, « Two stars, in the eyes of the world. » Former international Famara Diedhou taunted Morocco, asking, « Will the victory parade be in Rabat or Casablanca? »
All eyes now turn to Lausanne, where the CAS will determine whether Morocco’s hard-earned continental title stands—or if the drama continues.
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