Senegal set to dispute CAF's 'biased, shocking, and unjust' ruling on AFCON 2025 championship finale

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has vehemently denounced the March 17, 2026 ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Board, and will be taking the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne to contest the decision.

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The ruling in question overturned a prior decision by the CAF Disciplinary Board, declaring that Senegal had forfeited the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco, with the match being awarded 3-0 to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) due to Senegal's alleged breach of Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON regulations.

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Morocco's protest was sparked by the chaotic events that unfolded late in the final, where Senegalese players briefly left the pitch following a disallowed goal and a penalty awarded to the hosts.

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The CAF Appeals Board deemed the Royal Moroccan Football Federation's (FRMF) appeal admissible, citing that the Senegalese side's right to be heard had not been respected during the initial proceedings.

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In a formal statement released in response to the CAF's Tuesday decision, the FSF expressed its strong disapproval of the ruling, describing it as "unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable" and arguing that it undermines the integrity of African football.

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The statement from the FSF declared, "The Senegalese Football Federation denounces this unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable decision, which discredits African football," and confirmed that an appeal will be filed with the CAS "as soon as possible" to defend the rights and interests of Senegalese football.

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The FSF also reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the values of integrity and sporting justice, and will be keeping the public informed of any developments in the matter, as stated in the official release.

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The contentious final, designated as match no. 52 of the Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, has now become embroiled in prolonged legal proceedings, following the initial protest and subsequent counter-appeal.