Two days after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripped Senegal of its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and awarded it to Morocco, Senegalese fans remain in shock. Alhassan Hann, a 23-year-old university student in Dakar, described the decision as 'unjust and ridiculous,' adding that it damages the image of African football.
The controversy stems from the final on 18 January, which Senegal won 1-0 after extra time. During the match, Senegalese players staged a 15-minute walk-off in protest at a penalty awarded to Morocco. Morocco appealed, arguing the walk-off constituted a forfeit, and a CAF disciplinary panel ruled in its favour, declaring a 3-0 default win.
The reversal has sparked widespread disbelief. Former French international Patrice Evra, born in Dakar, called it an 'April fool's joke,' insisting Senegal are the real champions. In Africa, most fans and commentators support Senegal, noting that the referee restarted and finished the match, making the result binding.
Senegal's football federation has confirmed it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, calling the decision 'unfair, unprecedented and unacceptable.' The federation stated it contradicts fundamental principles of sporting ethics, including fairness and respect for the truth of the game.
Allegations of corruption have emerged, with some fans and officials questioning CAF's motives. Pape Ousmane Ba, a 32-year-old entrepreneur, accused CAF of corruption, claiming Morocco did everything to win through 'schemes and cover-ups.' He expressed optimism that the trophy will be returned to Senegal, saying, 'Football is won on the pitch.'
