Title stands: CAF rejects Morocco’s request to strip Senegal of AFCON 2025 trophy after chaotic final

In a landmark ruling that settles the dust on one of the most controversial finals in African football history, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has officiall​y rejected Morocco’s protest to have Senegal stripped of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title.

The Lions of Teranga secured their second continental trophy with a 1-0 victory over the hosts in Rabat, but the match was overshadowed by a 17-minute stoppage. 

Senegal's players briefly walked off the pitch in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco, a spot-kick that Brahim Diaz eventually missed.

The Federation Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) had filed a formal complaint, arguing that Senegal’s walkout violated Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON Regulations. 

Morocco contended that the action constituted a withdrawal from the match and had a "material impact" on the result.

However, the CAF Disciplinary Board has dismissed the protest in its entirety, confirming that the result on the pitch stands. 

While the title remains in Dakar, CAF did not let the host nation off the hook for their own administrative and fan-related lapses.

Despite keeping the trophy, Senegal was hit with a massive financial penalty. The Federation Senegalaise de Football (FSF) has been fined a combined USD 615,000 for the improper conduct of supporters, players, and technical staff.

Morocco also faces significant disciplinary action:

Stadium Misconduct: A USD 200,000 fine was imposed for the "inappropriate behaviour" of ball boys during the final.

VAR Interference: The FRMF was fined USD 100,000 after players and staff invaded the VAR review area to obstruct the referee.

Fan Violations: A USD 15,000 fine was issued due to the use of lasers by Moroccan supporters.

Individual Moroccan stars were also penalised, with Ismael Saibari receiving a three-match suspension and a USD 100,000 fine, while captain Achraf Hakimi was handed a two-match ban (with one match suspended for a year).