Wambui Faith
Senegal has strongly protested a controversial ruling by (CAF) that stripped them of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, calling for an independent international probe into alleged corruption within the organization.
The dispute stems from CAF’s Appeal Board decision to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time victory against , awarding the hosts a 3-0 win instead. The ruling was based on Senegal briefly walking off the pitch in protest during stoppage time—a move CAF says violated tournament regulations and amounted to forfeiting the match.
Senegal’s government has condemned the decision as “deeply unjust and legally questionable,” insisting it undermines the integrity of African football. Authorities are now pushing for a transparent investigation into CAF’s leadership, citing concerns over possible corruption.
Meanwhile, the has vowed to challenge the verdict at the (CAS) in Lausanne, describing the ruling as unprecedented and unacceptable.
The dramatic final in Rabat saw Senegal take a stand after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco, prompting a 14-minute walk-off led by coach . Star forward attempted to rally his teammates back onto the pitch. After play resumed, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal went on to score the winning goal in extra time through midfielder .
Despite the referee allowing the match to continue, CAF later ruled the walk-off as a breach of the rules—fueling outrage and raising serious questions about consistency in officiating and governance.
With the case now headed to CAS, the controversy is set to become a defining legal and ethical battle in African football.
