AFCON final overturned as Sunderland duo Habib Diarra and Chemsdine Talbi face new outcome | OneFootball

Morocco have been formally awarded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title after the final was overturned, a ruling that directly affects Sunderland duo Chemsdine Talbi and Habib Diarra.

The Confederation of African Football said Senegal forfeited the 18 January showpiece after a walk-off, and the official result is recorded as 3-0 to Morocco.

Senegal had originally won 1-0 after extra time in a chaotic contest. At 0-0 deep into stoppage time, a VAR review saw referee Jean Jacques Ndala award Morocco a penalty for a challenge on Brahim Diaz. Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw led his team off, returning after about 17 minutes.

When play resumed, Diaz’s spot-kick was saved by Edouard Mendy and full-time was signalled. In extra time, Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye struck for Senegal, seemingly sealing the trophy.

Tournament rules state that any team refusing to continue or leaving the field without the referee’s permission is deemed to have lost. The breach is recorded as a 3-0 defeat and elimination under Articles 82 and 84.

Talbi will now be recognised as a champion with Morocco, while Diarra and his Senegal teammates face their triumph being erased from the record as they prepare an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Source: Sunderland Echo