Despite the official decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripping them of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, Senegal’s national football team boldly paraded their trophy at the Stade de France, in front of an enthusiastic, sold-out crowd. The Lions of Teranga showed that, regardless of the administrative ruling, they still believe they are the rightful champions of Africa.
Defiant Scenes in Saint-Denis
Ahead of their friendly match against Peru, the Senegal squad, led by captain Kalidou Koulibaly, marched in a lap of honour around the pitch while goalkeeper Edouard Mendy proudly held the AFCON trophy aloft. The jubilant crowd cheered them on, with the players even posing for a group photo with the coveted silverware. This powerful gesture highlighted their resistance against the recent ruling, sending a clear message that they stand by their victory, despite the controversy.
The decision by CAF to strip Senegal of their title has caused an uproar in the football community. Just 10 days earlier, the Senegalese had defeated Morocco 1-0 on the field in January, but now the record books have been altered, with the title controversially awarded to Morocco.
The Walk-Off That Changed Everything
The controversy arose from the dramatic final match in Rabat, where Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw made the bold decision to order his team off the pitch in protest. The players were enraged after a last-minute penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review for a foul on Brahim Diaz. Despite the 17-minute delay and the intervention of star player Sadio Mane, who convinced the team to return, the damage was done in the eyes of the football authorities.
Though the game resumed and Senegal later won 1-0 with Pape Gueye’s extra-time goal, the CAF had already taken action. This dispute over officiating decisions, combined with the walk-off protest, has led to the annulment of Senegal’s title and the awarding of the trophy to Morocco, causing significant controversy across the continent.
Legal Battle Moves to Lausanne
In response to the decision, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has filed an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), contesting the ruling and describing the CAF’s action as "an administrative robbery." FSF President Abdoulaye Fall is seeking to have the original result reinstated, claiming that Senegal's victory was unjustly taken away. While the legal process may take months, the federation has already added a second star to the team’s jerseys, symbolizing their contested triumph.
Statement from CAF
The CAF Appeal Board justified its ruling, stating: "The CAF Appeal Board decided that, under Article 84 of the Regulations of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, the Senegal National Team forfeited the final match of the Morocco 2025 AFCON, with the result now recorded as a 3-0 victory for the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football." This formal statement has added fuel to an already heated debate, with Senegal refusing to accept the decision without a fight.
The ongoing dispute between Senegal and CAF continues to make headlines, with both sides awaiting the final legal outcomes of this contentious battle. As it stands, Senegal remains resolute in their belief that they are Africa’s true champions.
