Africa Cup of Nations

Senegal lose AFCON title in shock CAF decision as Morocco crowned champions

CAF’s Appeals Committee has overturned Senegal’s AFCON triumph and handed the title to Morocco after ruling the team forfeited the final.

FRANCK FIFE

Aritz Gabilondo David Nelson

Update: Mar 17th, 2026 18:09 EDT

In a stunning decision issued two months after the Africa Cup of Nations final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revoked Senegal’s title and awarded it to Morocco. In its official statement, CAF said its Appeals Board determined that, under Article 84 of AFCON regulations, Senegal forfeited the final, with the match recorded as a 3-0 win for the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

The ruling stems from Senegal’s decision to leave the field for several minutes during the final after the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco. Brahim Díaz ultimately missed the spot kick, but CAF deemed Senegal’s actions sufficient to constitute a forfeit under its regulations.

CAF overturns original decision

CAF’s Appeals Committee upheld Morocco’s appeal, reversing the earlier decision by the disciplinary body. It concluded that Senegal’s conduct fell under the provisions governing misconduct and forfeiture, and that the Moroccan federation’s protest should be upheld.

As a result:

Senegal were ruled to have forfeited the match.

The final was officially recorded as a 3-0 win for Morocco.

All other claims and motions were dismissed.

Additional sanctions and rulings

The Appeals Committee also addressed several disciplinary matters related to the final:

Ismaël Saibari (Morocco)

Found to have committed a disciplinary offense

Suspension reduced to two CAF matches, with one suspended

$100,000 fine overturned

Ball boy incident

Morocco held responsible for conduct during the match

Fine reduced to $50,000

VAR review area interference

Appeal rejected

$100,000 fine upheld

Laser incident

Fine reduced to $10,000

The decision brings a dramatic and controversial end to one of the most extraordinary finals in AFCON history, with Senegal stripped of the title and Morocco officially crowned champions.