Africa in shock after Senegal’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title annulled and crown handed to Morocco | OneFootball

African football has been rocked by the annulment of Senegal’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, the title awarded to Morocco administratively. According to L'Équipe, Morocco now stands isolated despite sway among some leaders.

Senegal were stripped in favour of Morocco, a move many link to CAF president Patrice Motsepe and Moroccan FA chief Fouzi Lekjaa.

The news broke on Tuesday after the breaking of the fast and was met with disbelief, including in Morocco. Youssef Moutmaine of Le Matin said many first thought it fake, felt uplifted despite the oddity, argued Senegal had withdrawn and that coach Pape Thiaw apologised, though he would have preferred a replay.

Across the continent players, officials and supporters condemned CAF, citing Morocco’s influence. Cameroon great Roger Milla called it unprecedented and shameful, questioned the medals and warned it risks devaluing the competition.

National federations mostly stayed quiet, perhaps wary of upsetting Morocco, while private groups buzzed. Cameroon FA president Samuel Eto’o urged unity and asked how to restore trust in CAF and reaffirm legitimacy without further damage.

CAF chief Patrice Motsepe received a forthright letter from Augustin Senghor, former Senegal FA president. Morocco’s FRMF welcomed a ruling it said upholds rules and stability.

Backlash hardened in Senegal as the government issued a defence of national interests. Senghor said he never imagined an appeals body could remove a trophy won after 120 minutes, adding that influence is understandable but overreach unacceptable. Motsepe has said no African nation will be treated more favourably than another.

Source: L'Équipe