Motsepe Breaks Silence As Senegal Set For CAS Showdown Over AFCON Title
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe has reaffirmed that the continental football body will fully respect any ruling delivered by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) amid the growing controversy surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
Speaking on March 18, 2026, Motsepe stressed that all African nations have the fundamental right to seek justice through the highest channels of global sports arbitration, as Senegal prepares to challenge CAF’s recent decision.
The development follows a dramatic ruling by CAF’s Appeal Board on March 17, which overturned Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the AFCON final played in January. In a decision that has sent shockwaves across the footballing world, CAF awarded a 3-0 forfeit win to Morocco, citing breaches of Articles 82 and 84 of the tournament regulations.
According to the ruling, the sanction stemmed from a 15-minute walk-off by Senegalese players in protest against a late penalty awarded to the host nation. Although the match eventually resumed and Senegal secured victory in extra time, the Appeal Board ruled that the temporary withdrawal constituted a terminal forfeiture under the competition rules.
Reacting to the situation, Motsepe acknowledged Senegal’s intention to appeal, describing it as a legitimate and important step.
“I’m told that Senegal is going to appeal, which is very important,” Motsepe said in an official video released by CAF. “Every one of the 54 nations in Africa has the right to pursue their appeals and advance their interests—not only within CAF, but also at the highest global level. We will adhere to and respect the decision that is taken at that level.”
The ruling has ignited widespread debate and controversy across the continent. The Senegalese government has strongly rejected the decision, labeling it “grossly illegal,” and has called for an independent international investigation into alleged corruption within CAF’s structures.
Meanwhile, Morocco has been officially confirmed as the new champions of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, securing their first continental title since 1976.
As the case heads toward CAS, African football now awaits what could be a landmark decision with far-reaching implications for governance, discipline, and fairness in the game across the continent.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
