African football has been rocked by a dramatic legal twist after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board overturned the outcome of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, awarding victory to Morocco following a successful protest.
In a ruling that brings closure to one of the most controversial finals in the tournament’s history, CAF declared that Senegal forfeited the match, with a 3-0 scoreline officially handed to Morocco.
The decision followed an appeal lodged by the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF), challenging earlier findings by CAF’s Disciplinary Board over incidents that marred the final.
According to CAF, Senegal’s actions during the match breached key provisions of the AFCON regulations, specifically Articles 82 and 84, leading to the forfeiture ruling. The Appeal Board further held that the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) was accountable for the conduct of its team, effectively validating Morocco’s claims and sealing the North African side’s triumph.
The verdict not only rewrites the outcome of the tournament but also underscores CAF’s willingness to impose strict disciplinary measures in high-stakes competitions.
In a related development, Moroccan midfielder Ismaël Saibari was found guilty of misconduct. However, his sanctions were significantly reduced, with his suspension cut to two matches, one of which is suspended and a previously imposed $100,000 fine scrapped entirely.
CAF also reviewed several off-field incidents involving Morocco. The federation was held liable for the actions of ball boys, though the fine was reduced to $50,000. A separate $100,000 penalty tied to interference around the VAR review area was upheld, while a sanction linked to a laser incident was scaled down to $10,000.
All other appeals and motions were dismissed, drawing a definitive line under a case that has dominated headlines across the continent.
