Morocco Declared 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Champions After Controversial Ruling
In a historic ruling, Morocco has been declared the winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after Senegal's controversial actions during the final led to a forfeit. Initially celebrated for their victory, Senegal's players walked off the pitch, prompting Morocco to appeal the decision. The CAF upheld Morocco's complaint, resulting in a 3-0 win for Morocco. This unprecedented outcome has sparked discussions about the implications of rule enforcement in sports, with Senegal now considering an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Discover the full story behind this remarkable turn of events.
| Mar 19, 2026, 04:36 IST
Morocco Crowned Champions Amid Controversy
In a surprising turn of events in football, Morocco has been named the official winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that overturned Senegal's initial victory.
Senegal had claimed the title with a 1-0 win over Morocco in the final held on January 18 in Rabat, but the match was marred by controversy during the closing moments of regular time.
With the score tied at 0-0 and time running out, a penalty was awarded to Morocco after a VAR review determined a foul on Brahim Diaz. This decision came shortly after Senegal had a goal ruled out, escalating the tension on the field.
In response, Senegal's players, under the guidance of head coach Pape Thiaw, left the pitch without the referee's consent, causing a stoppage of approximately 15 to 17 minutes before they returned to continue the match.
Upon resuming, Diaz failed to convert the penalty, attempting a Panenka that was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The game proceeded to extra time, where Pape Gueye netted the decisive goal, seemingly securing Senegal's second AFCON title.
However, Morocco filed an official complaint, asserting that Senegal's exit from the field breached tournament regulations.
The CAF appeals board supported Morocco's claim, referencing Article 82, which states that a team leaving the field without authorization forfeits the match. Consequently, Article 84 stipulates that such a breach results in a 3-0 defeat.
As a result, Senegal has been deemed to have forfeited the final, and the match is now officially recorded as a 3-0 victory for Morocco.
CAF confirmed this ruling in an official statement, indicating that Senegal's actions violated competition rules. Morocco's football federation clarified that their appeal was not aimed at changing the outcome but ensuring adherence to the regulations.
This ruling has ignited significant reactions, and Senegal is reportedly contemplating an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
What was initially hailed as an exhilarating final has now transformed into an unprecedented situation where the championship has been determined not through play, but through regulatory interpretation.