The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially revised its records to name Morocco national football team as champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with Senegal national football team now listed as runners-up.
The update follows a decision by CAF’s Appeals Board on March 18, which overturned the original result of the final played on January 18 in Rabat. Updated records on CAF’s official website now reflect Morocco as winners of the tournament, while Nigeria national football team remain third.
The ruling hands Morocco their second AFCON title and their first since 1976.
The final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium had ended in controversy after a tense and dramatic encounter. Following a goalless 90 minutes, the referee awarded Morocco a late penalty after a VAR review for a foul on Brahim Díaz by Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf.
Earlier, Senegal had a goal disallowed for a foul in the build-up, a decision that sparked protests from their players and officials. In response, head coach Pape Thiaw instructed his team to walk off the pitch, leading to a temporary suspension of the match amid further disruptions.
Senegal captain Sadio Mané later convinced his teammates to return, allowing the game to continue. The penalty awarded to Morocco was saved by goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
The match proceeded into extra time, where Pape Gueye scored in the 94th minute to give Senegal a 1–0 victory, and the team celebrated what appeared to be their second AFCON title.
However, Morocco’s football authorities filed a protest after the match, citing a breach of competition regulations. CAF’s Appeals Board upheld the protest, ruling that Senegal’s temporary walk-off violated tournament rules. Under the regulations, the offence resulted in an automatic 3–0 forfeiture in favour of Morocco.
CAF confirmed in its statement that the match was officially awarded to Morocco, declaring them champions.
The decision has generated widespread controversy across African football. Senegal’s federation has described the ruling as unfair and vowed to challenge it at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Meanwhile, Moroccan officials and supporters have welcomed the verdict, insisting it reflects the proper application of the rules.
The outcome stands as one of the most unusual in international football, with the title decided months after the final had already been played and celebrated.
