Senegal to challenge ‘unjust’ AFCON verdict

 

Senegal’s football authorities have vowed to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport after the country was stripped of its Africa Cup of Nations title on Tuesday.

In a statement, the Senegalese Football Federation condemned the ruling as “unjust, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” warning that it damages the reputation of African football. The body said it will move swiftly to file an appeal with CAS in Lausanne to defend the nation’s rights and interests.

The controversy stems from the AFCON final in Rabat on January 18, when several Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch in protest over a late penalty awarded to hosts Morocco. Although the team later returned and went on to win 1-0 after extra time, CAF ruled in favour of Morocco following an appeal.

CAF declared Senegal to have forfeited the match, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory in line with competition regulations regarding teams that abandon play without the referee’s approval.

Morocco’s football federation maintained that its appeal was not aimed at disputing the match result but at ensuring the rules were properly applied.

The final was marred by chaotic scenes, including a near pitch invasion by fans and a prolonged stoppage as Senegal’s players protested the penalty decision. Despite the disruption, Senegal had initially secured victory through a late extra-time goal.

Following CAF’s decision, Senegalese players and officials expressed outrage, with the federation insisting it will pursue justice through the appropriate legal channels.