The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has strongly rejected the ruling by the CAF Appeals Board that stripped Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and awarded the trophy to Morocco.
The federation described the decision as “unfair, unprecedented and unacceptable,” warning that it damages the image of African football. Officials confirmed they will immediately appeal the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland.
FSF Plans Legal Challenge at CAS
The controversy erupted after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled that the AFCON 2025 final should be recorded as a 3–0 victory for Morocco due to a forfeit decision, despite Senegal initially winning the match on the pitch.
In response, the FSF announced that it will challenge the decision through legal channels and insists Senegal remains the rightful champion until the case is resolved.
According to the federation, the move by CAF undermines sporting fairness and sets a dangerous precedent for African football competitions.
Senegal Plans AFCON Celebration in Paris
Despite the ruling, the Senegalese federation has revealed plans to celebrate the AFCON title with fans in France on March 28 during an international friendly match against Peru.
The celebration is expected to take place in Paris, where thousands of Senegalese supporters are anticipated to gather to honour the team and share the moment with the diaspora community.
Officials insist Senegal will not surrender the AFCON trophy until the legal process at CAS is completed.
Sadio Mané Speaks Out
Senegal star Sadio Mané also reacted publicly on Instagram following the controversial decision, expressing frustration and accusing football authorities of damaging the integrity of the sport.
“What happened has gone too far. This is not the football we fight for, nor the Africa we believe in,” Mané wrote.
“There is too much corruption in our game, and it’s killing the passion of millions of fans across the continent. Players give everything on the pitch, but decisions off it decide matches and trophies.”
The forward added that he was disappointed not only for Senegal but for African football as a whole, insisting fans deserve fairness, transparency and respect.
Why This Story Matters
The dispute between Senegal and CAF could become one of the most significant legal battles in African football history if it proceeds to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The outcome may shape how future continental tournaments handle disciplinary rulings, match forfeitures and appeals.
Read more: CAF Strips Senegal of AFCON 2025 Title, Awards Morocco Controversial 3–0 Victory.
Also read: Senegal Players React After CAF Strips AFCON Title.
