Senegal vs Morocco: A New Twist in CAF's Controversy
The ongoing saga surrounding the CAF (Confederation of African Football) has taken yet another unexpected turn, as the vice-president of the appeal jury has publicly disagreed with the controversial sanctions imposed on Senegal. This revelation comes in the wake of the CAF awarding Morocco the title of African champion under contentious circumstances, two months after the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final.
Faustino Varela Monteiro, the vice-president of the commission, expressed his deep disagreement with the ruling during an interview with L’Observateur. He revealed that he was the sole voice of dissent against what he described as a harsh verdict for Senegal, known as the Lions of Teranga. Monteiro stated, "I cannot agree with the interpretation that prevailed in this decision. When the referee allows the match to continue and reach its conclusion, it seems to confirm that there was no abandonment. Therefore, for a disciplinary body to conclude otherwise creates a break from the sport."
The internal dispute within the CAF highlights the ongoing contention regarding the validity of the decision, especially since Senegal is appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to challenge the ruling. Monteiro further emphasized that if the course of the match can be altered after the fact, the very idea of a final decision loses all significance. He also noted that the CAS would not re-examine a decision made on the pitch unless there is compelling evidence of arbitrariness or bad faith in the decision-making process.
To recall, on January 18, Senegal won against Morocco in Rabat during extra time, thanks to a goal from Pape Gueye. This match was marred by controversy, as it was interrupted for nearly a quarter of an hour when Senegalese players protested a penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time, a penalty that was ultimately missed by Brahim Diaz.
As reported by sports.fr.
