The fallout from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final has escalated, with Senegalese Football Federation announcing plans to challenge a ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that stripped Senegal of the title and awarded it to Morocco.

The federation says it will file an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, describing CAF’s decision as “unjust, unprecedented and unacceptable.”

Controversial final decision

CAF ruled that Senegal forfeited the final after players briefly walked off the pitch during a tense moment late in the game in Rabat.

As a result, the governing body awarded a 3-0 victory to Morocco, overturning Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time win.

The controversy began when Morocco were awarded a late penalty following a VAR review involving Brahim Díaz, sparking protests from Senegal’s players.

Although the team returned to the pitch, CAF determined that the temporary walk-off violated competition rules.

Key moment in the match

The match had been goalless before the penalty decision, which led to heated exchanges and a brief suspension of play.

Senegal captain Sadio Mané was seen helping to calm teammates and restore order. Morocco ultimately missed the penalty, and Pape Gueye scored in extra time, a goal that initially appeared to secure victory for Senegal.

Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy had earlier saved the penalty after a prolonged delay.

CAF cites rule breach

In its ruling, the Confederation of African Football cited Articles 82 and 84 of its regulations, which penalise teams that leave the field without authorisation.

CAF concluded that Senegal’s actions constituted a forfeiture, meaning the result was officially recorded as a 3-0 win for Morocco.

Meanwhile, the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football defended the decision, stating that its position was based strictly on enforcing competition rules.

Chaotic scenes in Rabat

The final was marred by disorder, including attempted pitch invasions and lengthy delays as Senegal’s players protested the referee’s decision.

Despite the disruptions, the match resumed and continued into extra time, where Senegal scored what was initially the winning goal before celebrations were later nullified.

Legal battle ahead

The decision has triggered strong reactions, with players and fans expressing frustration, while global football figures have also criticised the events surrounding the match.

Senegal’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport now sets the stage for a high-profile legal showdown that could ultimately determine the rightful winner of the tournament.

The case is expected to test the balance between strict rule enforcement and the integrity of results achieved on the pitch.