The African Football Confederation (CAF) has just dropped a bombshell. In a statement released this Tuesday, the continental governing body announced Senegal’s forfeit in the CAN 2025 final against Morocco, played on January 18. Although the Atlas Lions lost in extra time in front of their home crowd (0-1), they are now declared winners by default (3-0).

“The CAF Appeal Jury has ruled, in accordance with Article 84 of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations regulations, to declare Senegal’s national team forfeit in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. The result is confirmed as a 3-0 victory in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF),” the CAF stated in its Tuesday evening announcement following the appeal hearing.

>>> Follow live updates on the aftermath of CAF’s decision

Senegal sanctioned for abandoning the pitch

The CAF’s decision comes after Senegal’s controversial actions at the end of the match. Following a penalty awarded to Morocco, missed by Brahim Díaz in a dramatic panenka attempt, most of Senegal’s players left the field and returned to the locker room in protest. Fans led by star player Sadio Mané stormed the pitch, causing chaos and clashes with stewards.

After a prolonged delay, the match resumed with Díaz’s miss and then went into extra time. Pape Gueye, who scored the winning goal and became a national hero, had initially secured a thrilling victory for the Teranga Lions.

Morocco ends 49-year title drought

This unprecedented decision—first of its kind in a major tournament—is expected to spark intense reactions. Senegalese supporters, who may feel robbed, are likely to express their frustration. Meanwhile, Moroccan fans are celebrating the end of a 49-year title drought at the CAN and the country’s second continental triumph on home soil under Walid Regragui (now succeeded by Mohamed Ouahbi). Observers of African football will also weigh in on this historic ruling by the CAF Appeal Jury.

Saibari and Morocco penalized for towel theft

Beyond the seismic impact of Senegal’s forfeit, the CAF confirmed sanctions against Moroccan player Ismaël Saibari for stealing the opposing goalkeeper’s towel during the final. The PSV Eindhoven midfielder received a two-match ban (one suspended) but had his $100,000 fine overturned. Additionally, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation was fined $50,000 for the repeated theft of Senegal’s goalkeeper towels by ball boys during the match.

While Morocco had previously appealed the initial CAF sanctions, deeming them too lenient toward Senegal, the Senegalese Football Federation did not follow suit. However, in light of Tuesday’s ruling, the Senegalese body may pursue further legal action by taking the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.