AFCON 2025: Controversial CAF Decision, Senegal Disputes and Raises Corruption Suspicions

A decision by the CAF Appeals Jury, rendered on March 17, 2026, is sending shockwaves through African football. It calls into question the outcome of a key match in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and rekindles tensions between sports bodies, national federations, and political authorities.

A Decision with Major Consequences

In an official statement, the (FSF) indicated that it had taken note of the Appeals Jury's decision in case DC23316, related to a complaint filed during match no. 52 of the AFCON 2025 between Senegal and Morocco.

The appeals body deemed the appeal lodged by the (FRMF) admissible, thereby overturning the initial decision of the CAF Disciplinary Jury. The reason: a procedural irregularity, notably the non-observance of the appellant's right to be heard in the first instance.

Beyond this legal aspect, the Appeals Jury considered that the behavior of the Senegalese team contravened articles 82 and 84 of the competition regulations. Consequently, CAF declared Senegal to have forfeited the match, with a score of 3-0 awarded to Morocco.

A Sporting and Symbolic Upheaval

This decision goes beyond the strict framework of administrative litigation. It de facto alters the interpretation of the sporting result, with some observers believing it paves the way for a re-evaluation of the continental title.

On social media, widely shared messages claim that Morocco would now be considered the 2025 African champion “by default”. At this stage, no official communication from CAF explicitly confirms a complete reconfiguration of the honors list, but the potential impact of the decision fuels debate.

The FSF Denounces an “Unjust” Decision

In its reaction, the Senegalese Federation adopts a firm tone. It describes the decision as “unjust, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” believing it undermines the credibility of African football.

Without directly challenging the legal principles invoked, the FSF questions the interpretation and the disciplinary consequences applied. It thus announces its intention to appeal to the (CAS) in Lausanne, the final instance for international sports appeals.

This approach is part of a classic legal challenge strategy, aiming to have the case re-examined from the perspective of sports law and respect for procedures.

A Political Dimension Enters the Debate

The matter took a more sensitive turn with the reaction of the Senegalese government, which requested the opening of an investigation into suspicions of corruption within CAF's governing bodies.

At this stage, no public evidence has been presented to substantiate these accusations. Nevertheless, their mere mention further weakens the credibility of the decision and fuels a climate of suspicion surrounding the governance of continental football.