(FILES) Senegal's forward #10 Sadio Mane holds up the trophy as he celebrates with his teammates after winning the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final football match against Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18, 2026. AFP
In a statement on Wednesday, the government expressed “deep dismay” at what it described as an unprecedented decision that undermines fairness, integrity, and respect for results achieved on the field.
The statement said the ruling was based on a “manifestly erroneous interpretation” of regulations and warned it could damage CAF’s credibility and erode public trust in African football institutions.
“By calling into question a result obtained at the end of a match that was properly conducted to completion and won in accordance with the rules of the game, CAF is seriously damaging its own credibility,” the government said.
The controversy stems from the 2025 AFCON final, in which Senegal defeated Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a match that was played to completion despite brief interruptions. During the game, some Senegalese players temporarily left the pitch in protest over disputed incidents, but later returned, allowing the match to resume and conclude normally under the referee’s supervision.
CAF’s Appeals Jury later ruled that the interruption constituted grounds for a forfeit, overturning the result and awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory, a decision Senegal strongly contests.
The government described the ruling as an “attempt at unjustified dispossession,” saying it would not accept an administrative decision that overrides sporting merit.
Senegal called for an independent international investigation into suspected corruption within CAF’s governing bodies, pledging to pursue all available legal avenues, including appeals before competent international judicial bodies, to restore the title.
It also reaffirmed solidarity with Senegalese citizens detained in Morocco following incidents during the AFCON final, saying efforts were ongoing to secure a swift and favourable resolution.
“Senegal will remain resolute, vigilant and unwavering in defending the rights of the national team and restoring the honour of African sport,” the statement added.
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