CAF Overturns AFCON 2025 Result, Awards Title to Morocco After Senegal Sanction

Story: written by Amarachi March 18,2026
The Confederation of African Football has officially revoked Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 triumph, handing the championship to Morocco after a decisive ruling by its Appeal Board.

Senegal had originally secured a 1–0 victory over Morocco in the final held in Rabat on January 18, 2026. However, the match was marred by controversy when Senegal’s players abandoned the pitch in protest of a late penalty decision awarded to the host nation.

Head coach Pape Thiaw reportedly ordered the walk-off, causing a disruption that lasted around 15 minutes and affecting the conclusion of the game.

After reviewing the incident, CAF’s Appeal Board determined that Senegal breached tournament rules, particularly Article 84 relating to forfeiture. Consequently, the match has been officially recorded as a 3–0 victory in favour of Morocco, effectively transferring the title to the Atlas Lions.

In its statement, CAF confirmed that Senegal forfeited the final, validating Morocco’s claim to the trophy following an appeal by the Moroccan football authorities.

The decision overturns the initial outcome and has sparked debate across the football community, with Morocco now formally recognised as AFCON 2025 champions.