CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has issued a concise but firm response to the CAF Appeal Board’s ruling on the dramatic AFCON Morocco 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal.
The Appeal Board, an independent CAF judicial body chaired by a judge, overturned Senegal’s 1-0 victory after ruling that the team’s walk off in protest of a stoppage time penalty constituted a violation of Articles 82 and 84. As a result, the final was officially awarded 3-0 to Morocco.
Dr Motsepe expressed deep disappointment over the “unacceptable incidents” that overshadowed the showpiece match and reaffirmed that he fully respects all decisions taken by CAF’s judicial bodies, including the Appeal Board verdict.
He added that CAF’s leadership remains “absolutely determined” to strengthen the integrity and reputation of African football, confirming that an Executive Committee meeting has been convened to review disciplinary regulations to ensure stronger, more deterrent sanctions in future. [foot-africa.com]
Motsepe also highlighted CAF’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality and independence of referees, VAR teams and match commissioners, with increased financial and technical investment aimed at raising officiating standards across the continent.
Meanwhile, the fallout continues: Senegal has indicated it will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while Morocco has welcomed a ruling it says aligns with competition regulations. [sports.yahoo.com]