SAINT-DENIS, France – A brewing dispute threatens to overshadow Saturday’s friendly match between Senegal and Peru at the Stade de France. Morocco is threatening legal action if Senegal proceeds with plans to celebrate its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) title at the venue, despite the Confederation of African Football (CAF) having awarded the championship to Morocco following a controversial appeal.
The escalating tension stems from a decision by CAF’s disciplinary commission to overturn Senegal’s on-field victory over Morocco in the CAN final, citing irregularities during the match. Senegal has appealed this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS), but, as of Friday, no suspensive order has been issued, meaning CAF’s ruling stands.
Despite the CAF ruling, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) remains determined to celebrate what they consider their rightful victory. Plans are in place for a ceremony at the Stade de France prior to the match against Peru, including the presentation of the trophy and a performance by artists. The FSF is encouraging fans to attend and participate in the celebration.
However, Morocco is vehemently opposing this celebration. Mourad Elajouti, president of the Club of Moroccan Lawyers, announced Friday that he has sent formal notices to the Stade de France’s operating company and GL Events, the event management group. Elajouti argues that by hosting the celebration, these entities would be “engaging their direct responsibility” by supporting a ceremony based on a revoked title.
“By a definitive decision rendered on March 17, 2026, the CAF Appeals Board re-attributed the title to Morocco,” Elajouti stated in a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter). “In the absence of a suspensive decision from TAS, the exhibition of this trophy constitutes usurpation of the title and a manifestly unlawful disturbance. Any continuation of the event will result in legal action for damages based on Art. 1240 of the Civil Code (tort liability).”
The situation is complicated by the chaotic circumstances surrounding the CAN final itself. The match, which Senegal won 1-0 after extra time, was marred by a disallowed Senegal goal, a late penalty awarded to Morocco, and a protest by Senegalese players who left the field. Fans as well entered the pitch, leading to disturbances and violence with security personnel. The game resumed after a delay, with Morocco ultimately losing in extra time.
The dispute extends beyond the trophy presentation. The core issue revolves around allegations of corruption and fairness in the CAF’s decision-making process. Senegal maintains its claim to the title and is seeking a fair resolution through the TAS appeal.
The Stade de France and GL Events have not yet publicly responded to the threat of legal action from the Moroccan lawyer. It remains to be seen whether they will proceed with hosting the celebration in light of the potential legal ramifications. The situation is developing rapidly, and further updates are expected in the coming days.
This controversy highlights the intense rivalry between Senegal and Morocco in African football and raises questions about the integrity of the CAF’s disciplinary procedures. The outcome of the TAS appeal will be crucial in determining the rightful champion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and resolving this increasingly contentious dispute.
The Senegal national team, led by stars like Sadio Mané, had planned to use the match against Peru as an opportunity to connect with their fans in France and celebrate their achievement. Kalidou Koulibaly, a key defender for Senegal, had encouraged supporters to attend, stating, “We are going to celebrate our title as champions of Africa, with many surprises.”
The planned celebration, scheduled to commence at 3:00 PM local time with artistic performances, followed by the trophy presentation at 3:45 PM, and the match kicking off at 5:00 PM (15:00 CET, 9:00 AM EDT), is now under a cloud of uncertainty. The potential for legal intervention adds another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation.
The Moroccan stance underscores the seriousness with which they view the CAF’s decision and their determination to be recognized as the legitimate champions. The threat of legal action is a clear indication that they are prepared to pursue all available avenues to protect their claim.
As the match between Senegal and Peru approaches, all eyes will be on the Stade de France to see whether the Senegalese team will be allowed to celebrate their victory, or whether Morocco’s legal challenge will succeed in preventing the ceremony from taking place. The situation remains fluid, and a resolution is expected before Saturday’s kickoff.
Next Up: Senegal will face Peru at the Stade de France on Saturday, March 28th. The outcome of the legal challenge regarding the trophy presentation remains uncertain. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates as this story develops.
