Sénégal loses can 2025 title after caf reverses verdict

The Senegal national football team faced a dramatic turn of events two months after their African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2025 victory, as the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) reversed the final match outcome. What was initially celebrated as a 1-0 win over Morocco in extra time has now been overturned following a ruling by the CAF Appeals Jury.

In a statement released on March 17, the CAF declared Senegal’s team forfeit for the final, citing alleged misconduct during the match. According to tournament regulations, the decision resulted in a 3-0 technical victory for Morocco, stripping Senegal of their title. The ruling concluded that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s appeal was valid, based on breaches of CAN 2025 regulations.

SEBASTIEN BOZON / AFP

CAF reverses CAN 2025 final, awarding Morocco the title after Senegal ruled forfeit

Controversial final match fuels dispute

The initial final on January 18 was already marred by controversy. With the score tied, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco, sparking outrage among Senegalese players. Some temporarily left the pitch in protest before returning to finish the game.

Morocco’s penalty was saved by Édouard Mendy, but Pape Gueye scored in extra time to secure Senegal’s victory. At the time, the result stood despite the tensions. However, Morocco’s football federation contested key match events and filed a formal complaint with the CAF.

CAF ruling invalidates Senegal’s win

The Appeals Jury reviewed the case and ruled that Senegal’s conduct violated CAN 2025 disciplinary regulations, specifically articles 82 and 84. The decision nullified the original outcome, handing the title to Morocco. The CAF confirmed “the appeal filed by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation was deemed valid and justified.”

The reversal has drawn sharp criticism from the Senegalese Football Federation, which called the decision “unfair” and announced plans to appeal further. Morocco is now officially recognized as the 2025 African Cup of Nations champion, despite the match occurring weeks earlier.