The football landscape shifts in unexpected ways. Just two months after Senegal claimed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, Morocco has now been crowned African champions in a twist that few anticipated.
This surprising outcome stems from the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to honor a challenge made by the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) after the dramatic and contentious final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
During the final, tensions escalated after a series of refereeing decisions, specifically when Senegal’s Brahim Diaz was awarded a crucial penalty in the 83rd minute. Frustrated head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch, leading to a 14-minute suspension and chaotic scenes as supporters invaded the field. When play resumed, Diaz failed to convert the penalty, and Senegal eventually lost in extra time, thanks to a sole goal by Pape Gueye.
CAF concluded that Senegal’s exit from the field of play violated Article 82 of their regulations, which stipulates that a team that withdraws without referee authorization faces automatic elimination. The fallout of this decision means Senegal’s performance on the pitch was nullified, effectively granting Morocco a 3-0 victory through forfeit.
This outcome is historic, setting a precedent in the context of AFCON and the upper echelons of international football. Morocco’s nearly half-century wait to be recognized as continental champions is now written into the annals of football governance rather than through victory on the field.
Senegal has the option to appeal this ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, although their federation has yet to formally respond to CAF’s decision. Defender Moussa Niakhate expressed his disappointment on Instagram, flaunting the trophy with an emphatic meme: “Come and get them. They’re crazy!” His fellow teammate El Hadji Malick Diouf added to the social media hype, encouraging everyone to celebrate their unintended championship status.
In an official statement, the FRMF emphasized its respect for sporting performance while advocating for the consistent application of competition regulations. They conveyed a commitment to maintaining integrity within African football, appreciably recognizing all participating nations in this year’s AFCON as deserving of praise.
Beyond these controversies, disciplinary actions were swiftly taken against Senegal’s players and staff for their unsportsmanlike behavior during the match’s climax. Thiaw received a five-match ban, while players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr faced two-game suspensions. Senegal’s federation has also incurred significant fines for their role in the chaos. Surprisingly, two Moroccan players were also penalized for interfering with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, but Achraf Hakimi’s suspension was reduced by CAF after consideration of the circumstances.
