The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially awarded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title to Morocco. The decision, announced on March 17, 2026, follows a successful appeal by the Moroccan Football Federation regarding the controversial conclusion of the final match against Senegal.
The original final, played in January 2025, ended in significant on-field chaos and disputes over officiating decisions. CAF's appellate body reviewed the match footage and official reports, ultimately upholding Morocco's protest. The ruling overturns the initial on-field result that had seen Senegal declared the champion.
This marks a significant administrative victory for Morocco, which had hosted the tournament. CAF stated the decision was based on a breach of competition regulations during the final's decisive moments. The Senegalese Football Federation has expressed disappointment but acknowledged the governing body's ruling.
The 2025 tournament was noted for its high level of competition, but its conclusion will now be remembered for this unprecedented post-tournament adjudication. CAF has emphasized that the process underscores its commitment to enforcing competition rules, even after a trophy has been lifted.
