AFCON 2025: Morocco appeals to strip Senegal of title

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has officially requested that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA strip Senegal of its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.

The appeal follows the chaotic events of the final, where Senegal's temporary walk-off from the pitch halted play for 17 minutes during a contentious penalty review.

In a formal statement, the FRMF argued that Senegal's actions amounted to a "withdrawal from play" under competition regulations. Morocco contends that the extended disruption, which occurred in second-half stoppage time after they were awarded a penalty, severely impacted the rhythm and psychological balance of the match at its most critical moment.

The federation maintains that Brahim Díaz's subsequent penalty miss, a "Panenka" attempt easily saved by Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, was a direct result of the lengthy and unprecedented delay. Morocco's appeal seeks an administrative decision to overturn the on-field result and have the trophy awarded to them as hosts.

The scenes have drawn sharp criticism from global football authorities. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who attended the final in Rabat, called the walk-off "unacceptable" and "a shameful image for African soccer", demanding that disciplinary bodies take strong action. CAF has confirmed it is reviewing all evidence and will refer the matter to its disciplinary committees.

Senegal, which won the match 1-0 after extra time with a goal from Pape Gueye, has downplayed the threat. The Senegalese Football Federation stated it is "accustomed to these situations" and is awaiting the official referral from CAF. Head coach Pape Thiaw, who instigated the walk-off, has since apologised, calling it an emotional reaction in the heat of the moment.

The appeal places the final result in unprecedented territory. Analysts suggest that while heavy fines and suspensions for officials—particularly Coach Thiaw—are likely, an administrative reversal of the championship result is considered a far less probable outcome, given that the match was resumed and concluded on the field.

The controversy has overshadowed Senegal's victory celebrations, which included a national heroes' welcome in Dakar, where President Bassirou Diomaye Faye awarded each player substantial cash bonuses and land plots.

The outcome of Morocco's formal protest will now be determined by the disciplinary processes of CAF and FIFA, setting a significant precedent for the governance of the sport on the continent.

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