To all Africans and football fans around the world, congratulations to Senegal on winning the Africa Cup of Nations. A spirited and hard-fought tournament—well deserved. Respect as well to Morocco for their strong performance and contribution to an unforgettable competition.
Celebrations erupted in Morocco while outrage spread across Senegal after a dramatic decision to strip Senegal of their Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to the host nation.
Two months after a tense and controversial final in Rabat, the Confederation of African Football (Caf) ruled that Senegal had forfeited the match by walking off the pitch in protest of a refereeing decision. Although play later resumed and Senegal secured a 1–0 victory, Caf determined that the earlier protest breached competition rules.
The announcement sparked scenes of jubilation across Morocco, with fans pouring into the streets in cities like Tangier, waving flags, lighting flares, and celebrating what many described as long-overdue justice.
“It was a sleepless night,” Moroccan journalist Jalal Bounour said, as supporters hailed the decision as a correction of what they believed was an unfair outcome on the night of the final.
Many fans insisted the trophy had rightfully “returned” to Morocco, arguing that the rules had been clearly violated.
In stark contrast, the reaction in Senegal was one of disbelief and anger. In the capital, Dakar, supporters condemned the ruling, with some questioning the integrity of African football’s governing body.
“This is not football anymore,” one fan said, while others described the decision as shocking and unacceptable.
The Senegalese government has also rejected the verdict and announced plans to appeal, warning that the ruling risks damaging the credibility of Caf. Authorities have further called for an independent international investigation into alleged corruption within the organisation.
For many in Senegal, the result on the pitch should have been final. “The best team won on the field,” one supporter said, reflecting a widely shared sentiment that the decision off it has overshadowed the sport itself.
