Months after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, controversy surrounding the match's officiating continues to generate discussion. Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in extra time in the final held in Rabat on January 18, 2025, to claim their second continental title.
The match was marked by several contentious refereeing decisions, including a disallowed Moroccan goal and a denied penalty appeal, which sparked immediate outcry from the Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). The FRMF filed an official complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), calling for a thorough review of the officiating.
In response, CAF acknowledged the complaint and stated it would be reviewed by the relevant technical bodies, including the Referees Committee. However, as of early April 2026, no formal public report or disciplinary action related to the match officials has been announced by the governing body.
The lingering dispute highlights ongoing calls for greater transparency and the implementation of advanced officiating technology, such as semi-automated offside systems, in African football. The incident remains a point of reference in debates over refereeing standards on the continent.
