The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Jury has made a resounding decision regarding the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which pitted Senegal against Morocco. Following a challenge by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), the jury declared Senegal forfeited, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory.
This decision, based on the application of Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON regulations, overturned the initial result of the match. The CAF considered that the Senegalese team's behavior during the final constituted a violation of the regulations, thus justifying the forfeit.
The disciplinary body also ruled on incidents involving Moroccan player Ismaël Saibari. Initially sanctioned for "unsportsmanlike conduct" related to an altercation over a towel with Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, Saibari was handed a three-match suspension and a $100,000 fine. On appeal, his suspension was reduced to two matches (one of which was suspended) and the fine was cancelled. After the match, Saibari apologized to Édouard Mendy.
In addition, the FRMF was also sanctioned, but saw some fines reduced. The fine for the behavior of the ball boys was reduced to $50,000, while the one related to the laser incident was reduced to $10,000. On the other hand, the $100,000 fine for interference around the VAR review area was maintained.
This CAF decision follows an already highly controversial final, marked by incidents and tensions. Senegal had won the match on the field, but Morocco's appeal ultimately led to an unexpected turnaround. The FRMF had justified its appeal by the withdrawal of the Senegalese players from the field in protest, following a disputed refereeing decision. Sadio Mané had tried to convince his teammates to return to the field, but in vain.
The Senegalese Football Federation acknowledged the first decision of the CAF and waived its right to appeal the initial sanctions.
Morocco is therefore declared the winner of AFCON 2025 on the green carpet, an outcome that is sure to provoke strong reactions and revive the debate on refereeing and team behavior during African competitions. This decision concludes CAF's disciplinary proceedings regarding the tournament's championship match.
