AFCON 2025: CAF rejects Morocco’s appeal to strip Senegal of title

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has dismissed Morocco’s appeal to strip Senegal of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, while issuing heavy fines and suspensions to both teams following the chaotic final in Rabat.

Morocco, hosts of the tournament, were awarded a late penalty in added time against Senegal, prompting the Teranga Lions to briefly walk off in protest.

When play eventually resumed after a 20‑minute delay, Brahim Diaz’s panenka was saved by Edouard Mendy, sealing Senegal’s first AFCON triumph in half a century.

The match had already descended into disorder during a prolonged VAR check, with clashes between players and officials.

Moroccan ball boys were caught interfering with Mendy’s towel, while Atlas Lions captain Achraf Hakimi was filmed tossing it behind advertising boards, sparking further confrontation.

CAF’s ruling rejected Morocco’s appeal and fined the Royal Moroccan Football Federation $415,000 for misconduct, including $200,000 for ball boys’ actions, $100,000 for players and staff, $100,000 for Ismail Saibari, and $15,000 for fans using lasers.

Hakimi was banned for two CAF matches, while Saibari received a three‑match suspension.