Senegal’s government has accused the Confederation of African Football of corruption and called for an independent international inquiry after CAF stripped the country of its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in favour of host nation Morocco.
The dispute stems from Senegal’s walk-off protest during the final in January, after which CAF’s Appeal Board ruled two months later that the Lions forfeited the match under Articles 82 and 84 of the tournament regulations, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory.
A government spokesperson described the decision as “grossly illegal and profoundly unjust,” adding: “This unprecedented and exceptionally serious decision directly contradicts the fundamental principles of sporting ethics, foremost among which are fairness, loyalty, and respect for the truth of the game. It stems from a manifestly erroneous interpretation of the regulations.”
The statement continued: “By calling into question a result achieved at the end of a match that was properly played and won in accordance with the rules of the game, the Caf seriously undermines its own credibility and the legitimate trust that the African people place in continental sporting institutions. Senegal cannot tolerate an administrative decision that erases commitment, merit, and sporting excellence.”aef24e
Senegal’s Football Federation plans to appeal the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland.
CAF defended its decision, stating the forfeiture was a direct application of the regulations after Senegal “infringed Article 82.”
Morocco’s federation welcomed the verdict and said it would issue a formal statement after internal consultations.
