CAF announced the decision on Tuesday night through an official statement, confirming that its Appeals Committee found Senegal in violation of Articles 82 and 84 of AFCON regulations.
These rules state that any team that walks off the pitch or refuses to continue a match without the referee’s authorization is considered to have forfeited, resulting in a 3–0 loss.
As a result, CAF nullified Senegal’s victory, awarded the match to Morocco with a 3–0 scoreline, and officially handed the 2025 AFCON trophy to Morocco.
The final had originally taken place on January 18, 2025, ending in a 1–0 victory for Senegal, who were crowned champions at the time.
However, the match was marred by major controversy. In the closing moments of the game, Morocco were awarded a highly disputed penalty, prompting Senegalese players to walk off the pitch in protest against the referee’s decision.
After approximately 17 minutes of disruption, the players returned and the match resumed. Morocco’s penalty, taken by Brahim Díaz, was missed, and Senegal later scored a dramatic winning goal in extra time through Pape Gueye.
Despite the on-field result, CAF later reviewed an appeal filed by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), ultimately ruling in Morocco’s favor and overturning the final outcome.
CAF Overturns AFCON 2025 Final, Declares Morocco New Champions