The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final has been officially overturned. Morocco have now been declared champions after Senegal were ruled to have forfeited the match. The decision was announced by the Confederation of African Football’s Appeals Committee. It follows a review of events that unfolded during the final in Rabat.
Initially, Senegal had secured a narrow 1-0 victory after extra time in a tense and chaotic match. However, that result has now been nullified. According to CAF, disciplinary rules were breached during the game. Therefore, the Appeals Committee reversed the earlier decision.
“The Appeals Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has decided, in accordance with Article 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Regulations, to declare the Senegal national team as forfeiting the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 (‘the Match’), with the result officially recorded as 3-0 in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).”
The controversy began late in the match when tensions escalated on the pitch. A penalty was awarded to Morocco in stoppage time. However, the situation quickly turned chaotic. Some Senegalese players reportedly left the field in protest.
Although play resumed later, the incidents were considered serious breaches of conduct. Therefore, CAF cited specific regulations in reaching its decision.
The Senegal forfeit AFCON final outcome was based on Articles 82 and 84. These rules address misconduct and match abandonment. Following the announcement, Morocco’s football federation responded quickly. It acknowledged the decision while clarifying its intentions.
The federation stated that its appeal was not aimed at discrediting Senegal’s performance. Instead, it was focused on ensuring that competition rules were properly applied.
“The Federation reaffirms its commitment to respecting the rules, ensuring clarity in the competitive framework, and maintaining the stability of African competitions.”
Moreover, Morocco praised all participating teams. It described the tournament as an important moment for African football. However, the decision has raised many questions across the football community.
