In a surprising turn of events, Morocco has been declared the champions of the Africa Cup of Nations after Senegal was stripped of the title following a successful appeal regarding the final match outcome. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled that Senegal forfeited the match, which took place in Rabat on January 18, due to their players walking off the pitch in protest against a penalty decision that was deemed pivotal. Although Senegal briefly returned to the field and managed to secure a 1-0 victory with a goal from Pape Gueye in extra time, the appeal board overturned this result, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory instead.
This decision has shrouded the final in further controversy, as the walk-off incident, compounded by altercations involving players and spectators, has led CAF to acknowledge the negative impact on the reputation of African soccer. The Senegalese Football Federation (SFF) has announced its intent to challenge the ruling at the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport, asserting that the judgment lacks a solid legal basis. SFF Secretary-General Abdoulaye Seydou Sow expressed his indignation, claiming, "This is a travesty; this decision is based on absolutely nothing. It has no legal foundation," emphasizing their commitment to pursue the matter vigorously.
With this ruling, Morocco is crowned champions for a second time, marking 50 years since their first victory in the competition. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has welcomed the decision, underscoring their dedication to upholding competition regulations. The appeal board's ruling highlighted that the Senegal team’s actions fell within the parameters of specific articles governing the Africa Cup of Nations, stating that any team that refuses to play or abandons the match without the referee’s approval is considered the loser.
During the contentious final, Senegal’s players protested a controversial penalty awarded by Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala following a VAR review late in the match. As tensions flared, Senegal's coach Pape Bouna Thiaw ordered his team off the pitch, although they were later persuaded to return by winger Sadio Mane. The situation escalated as Morocco's Brahim Diaz's penalty attempt was ultimately unsuccessful, leading to extra time.
In addition to the championship decision, CAF announced a reduction in the punishment for Moroccan striker Ismael Saibari, who was initially fined and suspended due to his involvement in the chaotic events. However, a fine imposed on Morocco for attempting to interfere with the VAR process remains intact.
As reported by taipeitimes.com.
