The decision of the appeal jury of the African Football Confederation (CAF), made overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday, continues to cause shockwaves beyond the African continent. By awarding the victory of the 2025 CAN final to Morocco (3-0) on a technicality, after declaring Senegal forfeit based on Article 84 of the regulations, the governing body of African football is facing massive backlash, fueled by authoritative voices from the football world.
Since the official announcement, reactions have poured in on social media and international media, reflecting a widespread sense of confusion and controversy.
Among the first to speak out was Augustin Senghor, former president of the Senegalese Football Federation and a member of the CAF Executive Committee. He believes that the appeal jury crossed a line by overriding the referee of the final match.
“The truth champions will be recognized by Africa and the world,” he said, arguing that Senegal remains the legitimate winner of the competition.
Sharing a similar sentiment was Claude Le Roy. The respected former coach labeled the situation as a “big farce,” blaming the current CAF leadership and criticizing what he sees as a politically motivated decision.
According to him, while Morocco had a strong overall performance, the final clearly favored Senegal. He firmly stated that Morocco cannot be crowned champions of Africa under these circumstances, convinced that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will eventually restore the rights of the Teranga Lions.
The impact of this decision extends beyond the sporting realm. Former French international player Samir Nasri warns that it could permanently damage the credibility of CAF. This view is shared by many observers, who highlight contested governance and perceived inconsistencies in decision-making.
In the media sphere, international press outlets have also taken a firm stance on the issue. Spanish newspapers AS and Marca refer to it as a “global scandal,” while La Gazzetta dello Sport jokes about the decision not being an April Fools’ prank. German magazine Der Spiegel talks about a “retroactive champion,” and the British Daily Mail underscores the unprecedented nature of a sanction issued nearly two months after the final.
From the perspective of those directly involved, confusion has turned into anger. On social media, several Senegalese players have responded strongly. Defender Moussa Niakhaté posted a photo with the trophy, alongside a clear message: “Come and get them!”
Former Senegal coach Alain Giresse also criticized the decision, describing it as disconnected from the reality of the match. He emphasizes that Senegal had already been penalized financially and sportingly, denouncing unjust persecution.
“The psychological pressure during this final was felt most by Senegal,” he insists, calling the appeal jury’s conclusion “unprecedented nonsense.”
While a possible revision is awaited, one thing is certain: this incident leaves a lasting mark on African football. From a crisis of confidence to institutional fractures, CAF is now confronted with one of the most sensitive episodes in its recent history.
