Senegal has formally requested an independent international investigation into alleged corruption after the Confederation of African Football controversially overturned the result of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, awarding the title to Morocco instead.
The controversy stems from the January 18 final held in Rabat, where tensions escalated late in the match after a penalty was awarded to Morocco.
In protest, several Senegalese players temporarily left the pitch before returning to continue play.
Morocco failed to convert the penalty, and Pape Gueye later scored during extra time, sealing what was initially recorded as a 1-0 victory for Senegal.
However, in a dramatic decision announced on March 17, CAF cited competition rules regarding players leaving the field and revised the result to a 3-0 win in favor of Morocco.
Senegal’s government strongly criticized the ruling, describing it as “grossly illegal and profoundly unjust.” Government spokeswoman Marie Rose Khady Fatou Faye stated that Senegal would challenge the decision through all available legal mechanisms, including filing an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The government also raised concerns over the detention of 18 Senegalese supporters in Morocco during the match on allegations of hooliganism. According to officials, those detained received sentences ranging from three months to one year in prison, along with fines of up to $545. Faye assured that authorities would closely monitor the situation to ensure fair treatment of the individuals involved.
The ruling has sparked widespread backlash among Senegalese fans, many of whom have labeled the decision “a disgrace for Africa.” The incident has further fueled debate over accountability, governance, and transparency within African football administration.
