Morocco Awarded AFCON 2025 Title After CAF Overturns Final Result

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially declared Morocco winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following a dramatic decision by its Appeal Board, which ruled that Senegal forfeited the final match.

In a statement referencing Article 84 of the AFCON regulations, CAF said Senegal’s actions during the final constituted a breach, resulting in a 3–0 forfeiture in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF).

The final, played on January 18, 2026, in Rabat, was initially won 1–0 by Senegal after extra time. However, the match was marred by controversy late in regulation time when Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest over a VAR-awarded penalty to Morocco.

Although the players later returned and completed the game—eventually winning—it was this temporary walk-off that formed the basis of Morocco’s appeal. 

CAF’s Appeal Board upheld the protest, stating that the conduct fell under Articles 82 and 84, which govern forfeiture in cases of team misconduct. 

The decision has sparked widespread outrage and debate across social media platforms.

Senegal players reportedly reacted defiantly, sharing photos with the trophy in protest of the ruling.