The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has confirmed it received an appeal from the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) challenging the decision of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to award the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title to Morocco.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, CAS said Senegal is seeking to overturn CAF’s ruling and be recognised as the rightful winner of the tournament. The federation has also requested a suspension of the deadline for submitting its full appeal, pending the release of detailed reasons behind CAF’s decision, which was initially issued without explanation.
CAS disclosed that an arbitral panel will be constituted to hear the case, after which a procedural timetable will be set. Under standard rules, Senegal would have 20 days to file its detailed arguments, while CAF and other respondents would be given another 20 days to respond. However, proceedings remain on hold due to Senegal’s request.
CAS Director General, Matthieu Reeb, said the court is prepared to handle the dispute efficiently while ensuring fairness to all parties. He noted that although fans and teams are eager for a final outcome, due process would be strictly followed.
The appeal stems from CAF’s March 17 decision to uphold Morocco’s protest over the AFCON final, ruling that Senegal forfeited the match and awarding a 3–0 victory—and the title—to Morocco.
Senegal had originally won the final 1–0 on January 18 after scoring in extra time. However, the match became controversial following a 15-minute walk-off by Senegalese players in protest against a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
CAF’s Appeals Board later overturned an earlier decision by its Disciplinary Board, stating that Morocco’s protest was valid and that Senegal had not been adequately heard during the initial proceedings.
Reacting to the development, the FSF described CAF’s ruling as “unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” arguing that it undermines the integrity of African football. The federation subsequently moved to challenge the decision at CAS.
CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, acknowledged Senegal’s right to seek redress, noting that all member associations are entitled to pursue appeals, including at the global arbitration level.
Meanwhile, Morocco’s head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, welcomed the decision, describing CAF’s ruling as justified and congratulating his team and the country on what he called a “well-deserved” title.
