Outrage as CAF Awards 2026 AFCON to Morocco, Overturning Senegal Victory
Rabat, Morocco – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has sparked widespread condemnation after awarding the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to Morocco, overturning Senegal’s initial victory. The decision, ratified on Tuesday, March 18, 2026, stems from a controversial ruling regarding the final match of the 2025 tournament, originally won by Senegal 1-0 after extra time.
The stunning reversal has ignited a firestorm of criticism from across the football world, with veteran coach Claude Le Roy leading the charge. “I didn’t reckon for a second that CAF could go this far in the farcical,” Le Roy stated, according to reporting from Le Parisien. “This decision will, unfortunately, make the whole football world laugh!”
A Contentious Finale and Subsequent Ruling
The initial final, played on January 18, 2025, saw Senegal emerge victorious over hosts Morocco after a tightly contested match that went to extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal. However, the match was marred by controversy surrounding a late penalty awarded to Morocco, prompting Senegal’s players to briefly depart the pitch in protest. Le Roy, present at the match in Rabat as a consultant for Canal + Afrique, reportedly advised Sadio Mané and his teammates to return to the field.
“The referee was left alone on the pitch, without a responsible person. I spoke with him, he was lost!” Le Roy recalled. The events surrounding the penalty decision and Senegal’s subsequent protest have now culminated in CAF’s decision to award the title to Morocco, based on articles 82 and 84 of its regulations. The specifics of those regulations were not immediately available, but the ruling effectively nullifies Senegal’s on-field victory.
Le Roy Accuses FIFA President Infantino of Interference
Beyond the immediate shock of the decision, Le Roy leveled strong accusations against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, alleging that he orchestrated the outcome to favor Morocco. “Infantino plays on the greed of African leaders to receive votes and get re-elected at FIFA,” Le Roy asserted. He further claimed that CAF President Patrice Motsepe is “the vassal of Gianni Infantino, who wanted from the outset to give the CAN to Morocco.”
Le Roy’s comments reflect a deep-seated frustration with what he perceives as external interference in African football. He described the situation as “irresponsible” and warned that the decision would damage the reputation of the sport on the continent. The veteran coach, who previously managed Senegal from 1990 to 1992 and won the 1988 AFCON with Cameroon, believes the ruling undermines the integrity of the competition.
Senegal to Appeal to CAS
Senegal’s football federation has ten days to file an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland. The federation is expected to challenge the CAF’s decision, arguing that it disregards the outcome of the match and sets a dangerous precedent for future tournaments.
The situation has already sparked outrage among Senegalese players. Lyon defender Moussa Niakhaté took to social media, sharing images of the celebratory trophy parade in Dakar following the initial victory, and posting messages challenging rivals to “come and get” his medal and the Cup. He also posted, “It’s not AI, it’s real,” seemingly responding to disbelief over the CAF ruling. Toulouse midfielder Pape Demba Diop described the situation as “crazy” on Instagram.
Morocco’s Measured Response
In contrast to the strong reactions from Senegal and Le Roy, the Moroccan football federation has adopted a more measured tone. The federation acknowledged the ruling but maintained that its challenge concerned the application of regulations, not the sporting merit of the match. They reaffirmed their commitment to rules, clarity, and stability within the competition.
The CAF’s decision has raised serious questions about the governance of African football and the influence of external forces. The controversy underscores the challenges facing the continent’s governing body as it strives to maintain its independence, and credibility.
What’s Next?
The coming days will be crucial as Senegal prepares its appeal to CAS. The outcome of that appeal will determine whether the 2025 AFCON title remains with Morocco or is rightfully restored to Senegal. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the legal process unfolds. The CAF executive committee is scheduled to meet on March 29, 2026, where this matter is expected to be a central topic of discussion.
This unprecedented turn of events casts a long shadow over African football, raising concerns about fairness, transparency, and the integrity of the game. The world will be watching closely as Senegal fights to reclaim its title and restore faith in the AFCON.
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