Albert Masno Advocates for Morocco's Rights in African Football
Albert Masno, the deputy director of the Spanish sports daily Sport, has publicly expressed his unwavering support for Morocco's claim to the African Cup of Nations title for 2025. This backing comes in light of a controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding the championship match that took place between Senegal and Morocco. Initially, Senegal emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win; however, this title was later revoked by the CAF and awarded to Morocco, the Lions of the Atlas, after an unprecedented turn of events.
In an article published in Sport, Masno made a compelling argument for Morocco, stating, "Leave football alone... Morocco is right." He emphasized that the situation surrounding the title remains unresolved three months following the final match. According to Masno, the CAF awarded the title to Morocco after determining that Senegal, the runner-up, had withdrawn from the match, which led to significant implications for the outcome.
This controversy intensified following a catastrophic defeat for Morocco against Senegal in the Under-20 African Cup of Nations. Masno recounted that Senegalese players had left the field, some even taking to Snapchat before returning to the pitch. The match resumed at the coach's order, resulting in Senegal's eventual victory in extra time. Upon reviewing the circumstances, the CAF concluded that Senegal could not be declared the winner since their players had abandoned the field, marking a rare instance where a champion was decided off the pitch rather than through play. The federation stood by its decision, asserting it was the correct course of action.
Masno further reiterated a fundamental principle of football: "No team can leave the field; if they do, they lose the match. That is a basic rule of football... Imagine if Barcelona left the field in protest over a red card given to Kubarsi or a penalty not awarded to Pobel. Whoever departs, loses." He concluded by stressing the need for acceptance of the decision made by the CAF, indicating that much time has passed since the tournament and asserting that Morocco rightfully deserves the title.
As reported by goal.com.
