CAF Awards AFCON 2025 Final to Morocco After Senegal Forfeits

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has officially awarded the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final to Morocco after Senegal was found to have forfeited the match.

The decision was made by the CAF Appeal Board following a review of the case. The final result has now been recorded as a 3–0 win in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF).

This ruling came after Morocco appealed an earlier decision by the CAF Disciplinary Board. The Appeal Board agreed with Morocco and overturned the previous outcome.

CAF stated that the Senegal national team broke tournament rules under Articles 82 and 84. Because of this, Senegal was declared to have forfeited the final match.

The Appeal Board also confirmed that Morocco’s protest was valid and should be upheld.

In addition, there were separate rulings involving Moroccan player Ismaël Saibari. He was found guilty of misconduct, but his punishment was reduced.

Saibari will now serve a two-match suspension, with one match suspended. A previous fine of USD 100,000 against him was cancelled.

CAF also reviewed other incidents during the match. Morocco was held responsible for the behaviour of ball boys, and their fine was reduced to USD 50,000.

However, a USD 100,000 fine for interference near the VAR review area was upheld.

Another fine related to a laser incident was reduced to USD 10,000.

CAF said all other requests in the case were dismissed.

The ruling brings final closure to one of the most controversial AFCON finals in recent years.