AFCON final overturned, Sunderland duo Habib Diarra and Chemsdine Talbi learn new outcome | OneFootball

Morocco have been declared Africa Cup of Nations winners after the final result was overturned, a decision that directly affects Sunderland’s Chemsdine Talbi and Habib Diarra.

CAF confirmed Senegal forfeited the 18 January showpiece and the official result will be recorded as 3-0 to Morocco.

The final had originally ended 1-0 to Senegal after extra time. In stoppage time at 0-0, referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR check on a challenge on Brahim Diaz.

Outraged, head coach Pape Thiaw led Senegal off the pitch. After about 17 minutes they returned, Diaz’s kick was saved by Edouard Mendy and the referee soon signalled full-time.

Extra time brought a goal for Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye, seemingly sealing Senegal’s title. Morocco then appealed and CAF’s appeals board ruled Senegal had breached Articles 82 and 84, which mandate a forfeit and a 3-0 defeat for leaving the field.

Senegal’s federation has condemned the verdict and will take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Some players appeared to mock the decision on social media. Morocco’s federation framed its appeal as ensuring the rules were correctly applied.

Talbi will now be officially recognised as part of the victorious Morocco squad. Diarra and his Senegal teammates face the prospect of their triumph being erased from the record pending the outcome of their appeal.

Source: Sunderland Echo