CAN 2025 final: Morocco crowned champions amid Senegal’s appeal
CAN 2025 final: Morocco crowned champions amid Senegal’s appeal
The Africa Cup of Nations football tournament has reached an unprecedented conclusion. Senegal, who claimed the championship title just two months prior, has had its victory revoked by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with the honor now being awarded to Morocco.
A mere two months following a truly unforgettable final, Senegal finds itself stripped of its Africa Cup of Nations football title. On Tuesday, March 17, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) made the decision to withdraw the prestigious trophy from the Lions of Teranga, reassigning it instead to Morocco. This dramatic turn of events stems from a dispute concerning the tournament’s championship match. In response, Senegal has publicly declared its intention to appeal this ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS).
The Africa Cup of Nations final, which took place on January 18, was marked by exceptionally contentious events. A penalty awarded late in the match ignited scuffles both on the sidelines and within the stands, leading to a significant and prolonged halt in play. Despite these disruptions, Senegal had initially emerged victorious over Morocco with a 1-0 scoreline in extra time, proudly lifting the championship trophy. Nevertheless, following an appeal process, CAF invoked Article 82 of its regulations, declaring Senegal to have forfeited the match due to an alleged irregular conclusion to the game. This decision represents an unprecedented and dramatic twist in the tournament’s history.
The CAF’s decision, revealed on the evening of Tuesday, March 17, has ignited considerable controversy and provoked strong reactions, particularly among Senegalese supporters and players. Defender Moussa Niakhaté expressed his outrage on Instagram, exclaiming, “Come get them! They are crazy!“