In a groundbreaking decision, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially stripped Senegal of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 title, awarding it to Morocco following Senegal's withdrawal during the final match held in Rabat. The CAF has imposed a 3-0 victory in favor of Morocco, citing 'administrative inattendance,' a ruling that marks a significant shift in the continental football landscape and sets a disciplinary precedent for future African competitions. As a result, Senegal loses what would have been its second continental title, while Morocco is recognized as the new champion, breaking a trophy drought that has lasted since 1976.
The CAF Appeals Board, the highest disciplinary authority in African football, announced that the decision came after Senegalese players left the field during extra time in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco following a VAR review, where Brahim Díaz was fouled in the area. Senegal's coach, Pape Thiaw, instructed his players to exit the pitch as a sign of protest, an act deemed a violation of Articles 82 and 84 of CAF regulations, which define 'administrative inattendance.' Consequently, the final score has been officially recorded as 3-0 in favor of Morocco, with immediate sports and financial repercussions for both federations, as stated in the CAF's announcement.
The events unfolded when the referee confirmed a penalty for Morocco during stoppage time after consulting the VAR. This decision led to Senegal's departure from the field, creating a prolonged episode that left the outcome of the match hanging in the balance. The CAF Appeals Board ruled that this withdrawal constituted 'administrative inattendance' at a critical juncture of the tournament.
The CAF's ruling extended beyond the sporting aspect, implementing additional economic and disciplinary sanctions. Morocco acknowledged responsibility for the behavior of its ball boys, resulting in a $50,000 fine, and was penalized $10,000 for the use of lasers in the stadium. Additionally, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) is required to pay $100,000 for interference in the VAR review area (OFR/VAR). Regarding Moroccan player Ismaël Saibari, the CAF determined that he engaged in unsportsmanlike conduct in accordance with Articles 82 and 83(1) of the Disciplinary Code; he received a two-match suspension, one of which is suspended, and the initially proposed $100,000 fine was withdrawn.
The African governing body detailed that the Appeals Board's decision replaces the previously adopted measure by the disciplinary commission, and the acceptance of appeals lodged by the FRMF was crucial for the change in ruling. All events were evaluated based on official records and reports submitted by both federations.
As reported by infobae.com.
