AFCON 2025 Final Controversy: Senegal Stripped of Title, Morocco Declared Champions

AFCON 2025 final ends in controversy as Senegal is stripped of its title and Morocco is awarded the championship. Read the full story on the CAF decision, appeal, and reactions.

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In a highly controversial decision, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revoked Senegal’s AFCON 2025 championship and declared Morocco as the winner. The ruling has sparked intense debate among football fans, players, and analysts worldwide.

The AFCON 2025 final, played in January 2026, initially saw Senegal defeating Morocco 1–0 after extra time. During stoppage time, a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco, prompting Senegal players to briefly walk off the pitch in protest. Although the match was completed after the players returned, CAF later determined that Senegal’s walk-off violated tournament regulations, providing the basis for Morocco’s successful appeal.

Following the appeal, CAF officially overturned Senegal’s win and awarded Morocco a 3–0 victory, naming them the 2025 AFCON champions. This is an extremely rare instance of a continental tournament result being changed months after the final.

Senegal’s football authorities strongly criticized the decision, calling it “unjust and illegal,” announcing plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and asserting that the on-field result should remain decisive.

The ruling has sparked debate among football fans and experts. Critics say reversing the final months later undermines football traditions, and some raised concerns about governance and transparency in CAF. Analysts warn this case could set a precedent for future tournaments.

Morocco is currently recognized as the official AFCON 2025 champion, while Senegal’s appeal to CAS may potentially reverse the decision. The football community continues to follow developments closely.