Dakar, March 18 (NationPress) The Senegalese government has vehemently criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for its recent ruling to revoke the national team's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, unfairly awarding it to Morocco. They have labeled this action as 'extremely unlawful' and 'profoundly unjust.'

In an official announcement on Wednesday, the Senegalese authorities called for an investigation into what they described as suspected corruption within CAF.

“The Senegalese Government expresses its profound disappointment following the ruling made by CAF's Appeals Jury, which strips the Senegal national team of its 2025 African championship title and transfers it to Morocco,” the statement read.

“Senegal will not stand for an administrative ruling that negates dedication, merit, and athletic excellence. Senegal categorically rejects this unjustified appropriation of our title,” it further stated.

The government has also demanded an independent international inquiry into the alleged corruption within CAF's leadership, signaling a significant escalation in this dispute.

“We urge the initiation of an independent international investigation into the suspected corruption within CAF’s governing bodies. Senegal will explore all possible avenues for appeal, including through competent international judicial entities, to ensure that justice prevails and the integrity of the sporting outcome is reinstated,” the statement emphasized.

This controversy originated from the AFCON 2025 final held in Morocco, where a complaint during the match led to disciplinary actions. Although CAF's disciplinary board had initially ruled in favor of Senegal, that decision was later overturned by the appeals committee.

Senegal had secured a 1-0 victory against Morocco on January 18 in the AFCON final, but the game was marred by controversy when Senegal's players refused to resume play after Morocco was awarded a stoppage-time penalty while the score was tied. Play continued after a 17-minute break. The penalty taken by Brahim Diaz was saved, allowing Pape Gueye to score the decisive goal for Senegal in extra time.

The CAF Appeals Board ruled in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), stating that Morocco’s right to be heard had not been honored in the initial processes. The appeals board concluded that Senegal violated Articles 82 and 84 of the tournament's regulations, resulting in the match being awarded to Morocco with a 3-0 forfeit victory.