The Senegalese Football Federation has rejected a decision by the Confederation of African Football Appeal Board to award the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title to Morocco, confirming plans to challenge the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Morocco were declared champions after the appeal body overturned the original final result, ruling that Senegal forfeited the match played in Rabat on January 19 following a walk off by their players. CAF subsequently recorded the result as a 3–0 victory in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.
The decision followed a protest from Morocco after chaotic scenes late in the game, when Senegal players temporarily left the pitch in reaction to a disallowed goal and a penalty awarded to the hosts. The appeal board determined that the actions breached competition regulations on misconduct and forfeiture.
In a statement, the Senegalese federation said the appeal was upheld on procedural grounds, with the board citing that Morocco’s right to be heard had not been respected during the initial disciplinary process. It added that the conduct of the Senegal team fell under Articles 82 and 84 of the tournament rules, leading to the forfeiture ruling.
However, Senegal strongly criticised the outcome, describing it as unfair and damaging to the credibility of African football. The federation confirmed it would take the matter to CAS in Lausanne to defend its position, while reaffirming its commitment to due process and sporting integrity as the case moves forward.
