The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has stripped Senegal of its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title. The decision, announced on March 18, 2026, declares Senegal a forfeit for the final match due to fielding an ineligible player.
Senegal had originally defeated Nigeria 1-0 after extra time in the final, held in July 2025. However, CAF's disciplinary board ruled that a Senegalese player was ineligible to participate. As a result, the match is officially recorded as a 3-0 victory for Nigeria.
The ruling has sent shockwaves through Senegalese football and the wider African sporting community. The Senegalese Football Federation is expected to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
This unprecedented move marks the first time a reigning AFCON champion has been stripped of the title after winning the final on the pitch. The trophy and winner's medals will be transferred to Nigeria.
