Morocco Declared AFCON 2025 Champions After CAF Appeal Ruling
The Confederation of African Football’s Appeal Board has ruled in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, overturning an earlier disciplinary decision and declaring Senegal to have forfeited the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. As a result, the match has officially been recorded as a 3–0 victory for Morocco.
Appeal Upheld, Final Result Rewritten
The CAF Appeal Board has ruled in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, overturning a previous disciplinary decision and awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory in the AFCON 2025 final. The appeal was deemed admissible and fully upheld, leading to a complete reversal of the initial ruling.
Senegal Found in Breach, Match Forfeited
According to the Appeal Board, the conduct of the Senegal national team violated CAF regulations. As a result, Senegal was officially declared to have forfeited the final, with the match outcome recorded as a 3–0 win for Morocco.
Saibari Sanction Reduced
The Board confirmed that Ismaël Saibari committed misconduct under CAF’s disciplinary code. However, his punishment was revised. He will serve a two-match suspension, with one match suspended, while the initial fine of 100,000 dollars was cancelled.
Mixed Rulings on Match Incidents
Several incidents involving Morocco were also reviewed. The federation was held responsible for the conduct of ball boys, though the fine was reduced to 50,000 dollars.
The appeal concerning interference around the VAR review area was rejected, with the 100,000 dollar fine maintained.
In contrast, the sanction related to the laser incident was reduced, with the fine lowered to 10,000 dollars.
A Decision That Reshapes the Final
With all other requests dismissed, the ruling brings closure to a highly contentious case. Beyond the disciplinary aspects, the decision significantly alters the outcome of the AFCON 2025 final, officially crowning Morocco as champions.
Editorial team/le7tv (Press Release)
