March 17, (THEWILL) — Africa’s football governing body has handed Morocco the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 title after its Appeal Board ruled that Senegal forfeited the final, with the result officially recorded as 3-0 in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF).
The ruling overturns a prior decision by the CAF Disciplinary Board. The Appeal Board found that Senegal’s conduct during the match fell within the scope of Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON Regulations, upheld the protest lodged by the FRMF, and set aside the lower body’s original ruling entirely.
Moroccan player, Ismaël Saibari, who faced separate proceedings, had his sanction partially amended. The Appeal Board confirmed he committed misconduct under Articles 82 and 83(1) of the CAF Disciplinary Code, but revised his ban to two official CAF matches, with one suspended. The $100,000 fine previously imposed on him was set aside.
The FRMF was not without fault in the board’s findings. Morocco was held responsible for its ball boys’ conduct during the match, though the related fine was reduced to $50,000. The $100,000 fine for interference around the VAR review area was confirmed in full, while the fine connected to a laser incident was reduced to $10,000.
All remaining motions and prayers for relief submitted to the board were dismissed. The decisions represent a significant reversal following what had initially been a disputed conclusion to the continental final.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
