The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has confirmed receipt of an appeal filed by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) challenging a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to award the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title to Morocco.
In a statement released on Wednesday, CAS disclosed that Senegal is seeking to overturn the ruling and be recognised as the rightful winner of the tournament.
The federation has also requested a suspension of the deadline for submitting its full appeal brief pending the release of detailed grounds for CAF’s decision, which was initially issued without explanation.
CAS noted that an arbitral panel will be constituted to hear the matter, after which a procedural timetable will be established. Under its rules, the appellant is expected to file detailed submissions within 20 days, while the respondents are given a similar period to respond. However, proceedings remain on hold due to Senegal’s request.
CAS Director General, Matthieu Reeb, stated that the body is well-positioned to handle the dispute efficiently while ensuring fairness.
“CAS is perfectly equipped to resolve this type of dispute, with the assistance of expert and independent arbitrators. We understand that teams and fans are eager to know the final decision, and we will ensure that arbitration proceedings are conducted as swiftly as possible, while respecting the right of all parties to a fair hearing,” he said.
The appeal follows CAF’s ruling of 17 March, which upheld Morocco’s protest and declared that Senegal forfeited the final, awarding the match 3–0 to Morocco.
Senegal had originally secured a 1–0 victory in the final played on 18 January, scoring in extra time. However, the match was later overshadowed by controversy after Senegalese players staged a 15-minute walk-off in protest against a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
CAF’s Appeals Board overturned an earlier decision by its Disciplinary Board, ruling that Morocco’s protest was admissible and that Senegal’s right to fair hearing had not been fully observed.
Reacting to the development, the Senegalese Football Federation described the ruling as “unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” stating that it undermines the integrity of African football.
CAF President, Patrice Motsepe, acknowledged Senegal’s right to challenge the decision, noting that member associations are entitled to seek redress at both CAF and CAS levels.
“And I’m told that Senegal is going to appeal, which is very important. Every one of the 54 nations in Africa has a right to pursue their appeals and advance their interests… and we will adhere to and respect the decision that’s taken at the highest level,” he said.
Meanwhile, Morocco’s head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, welcomed the decision, describing the title award as deserved.
“First of all, I would like to congratulate all Moroccans, the staff, the players and the federation on the good news we got two days ago, which is well-deserved,” he said, adding that the outcome “pleases everyone.”
