Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe has announced an upcoming visit to Senegal, followed by a trip to Morocco. This initiative aims to defuse tensions arising from the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 and to consolidate relations between the two nations.
During a CAF Executive Committee session in Cairo, Motsepe stressed the importance of unity in African football. "We will not allow football to divide our people by bringing stress and tension. On the contrary, football must unite our people," he declared. He insisted on the need to maintain and strengthen the historical ties between Senegal and Morocco.
Motsepe's decision comes in a context where relations between the two countries have been tested. The CAF thus finds itself in a role of mediator to appease the spirits.
Tension between Senegalese and Moroccan fans remains palpable, exacerbated by the recent CAF decision to strip Senegal of the AFCON 2025 title in favor of Morocco. This decision was made after the CAF ruled that the Senegalese team had violated regulations by briefly leaving the field during the final. Senegal has appealed this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Pending a final resolution, Patrice Motsepe remains committed to visiting both countries to promote collaboration and development of African football.
AFCON 2025, initially scheduled in Guinea, was finally held in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026. The tournament saw the participation of 24 teams divided into six groups.
In March 2026, CAF organized a workshop in Johannesburg to strengthen security in African stadiums, underscoring its commitment to the continued improvement of football on the continent.
Patrice Motsepe has stated that he will respect the CAS decision regarding Senegal's appeal, stressing the independence of CAF's judicial bodies.
Despite the controversy surrounding the AFCON 2025 final, Motsepe remains determined to use football as a tool for unity and development in Africa.
