In a dramatic and unprecedented twist, the result of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Final has been officially reversed, with Morocco national football team crowned champions—two months after Senegal national football team had celebrated a 1-0 victory.
Senegal initially clinched the title in January thanks to a decisive extra-time goal from Pape Gueye during a chaotic final held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. However, that result has now been nullified following a ruling by the Confederation of African Football.
Chaos That Changed Everything
The match descended into disorder after a controversial VAR decision awarded Morocco a late penalty. In protest, Senegal players walked off the pitch, triggering unrest among fans. Reports indicated clashes with security personnel as supporters attempted to invade the field.
Despite the disruption, Morocco’s Brahim DĂaz missed the penalty deep into added time. Senegal held on to win the match—or so it seemed.
CAF Appeal Board Delivers Shock Verdict
Following an appeal by the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF), CAF’s Appeal Board has now ruled that Senegal forfeited the match under Article 84 of AFCON regulations.
In its official statement, CAF confirmed:
“The Senegal National Team is declared to have forfeited the Final Match… with the result recorded as 3–0 in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.”
The board also upheld Morocco’s appeal and overturned the earlier decision by the disciplinary committee.
Historic Outcome
The ruling hands Morocco their first AFCON title since 1976, marking a historic and highly controversial conclusion to the tournament. Meanwhile, Senegal now faces potential sanctions, including bans for players and staff involved in the incident.
Fallout and Reaction
The decision is expected to spark widespread debate across African football, with questions already emerging around officiating, crowd control, and the enforcement of tournament regulations.
This extraordinary reversal may go down as one of the most contentious moments in AFCON history, redefining how disciplinary actions can ultimately shape the outcome of major international tournaments.
