The Pathfinder
Wednesday March 18, 2026
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The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board has declared Senegal forfeited the AFCON 2025 final, awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory under Article 84 of competition regulations.
A statement on the official CAF website on Tuesday said that the board upheld Morocco’s appeal and set aside the earlier decision of the CAF Disciplinary Board on the final match dispute.
It ruled Senegal’s conduct breached Articles 82 and 84, validating Morocco’s protest and confirming the forfeiture decision in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football.
The board also found the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football infringed Article 82 through its team’s conduct during the disputed match.
All other motions and requests for relief relating to the main appeal were dismissed by the CAF Appeal Board.
On Morocco’s player Ismaël Saibari, the board upheld misconduct findings but reduced sanctions to a two-match suspension, with one match suspended.
The board also cancelled the earlier fine of 100,000 dollars imposed on the player.
CAF held Morocco responsible for the ball boys’ conduct but reduced the fine to 50,000 dollars.
The appeal on interference around the OFR/VAR review area was dismissed, with the 100,000-dollar fine upheld.
However, the fine for the laser incident involving Morocco was reduced to 10,000 dollars, while other requests were dismissed.
Meanwhile, the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) has reaffirmed its acceptance of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board’s decision regarding the disputed 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
In a statement on its official website, the Moroccan federation clarified that its appeal was intended to ensure correct application of competition regulations, and not to challenge the sporting merit of any team.
“The Federation reiterates that its approach has always been grounded in respect for the rules and stability of African competitions,” it said.
The FRMF praised all participating nations, describing the tournament as a landmark for African football development.
The statement added that a detailed position would be released following a meeting of its governing bodies.
CAF’s Appeal Committee ruling has sparked debate over governance and transparency in African football, with stakeholders calling for clearer regulations and decision-making processes.
Morocco’s response is expected to influence ongoing discussions about reforms and accountability within CAF structures.
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