18.03.2026 10:11
In the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, Senegal, which became the champion on January 19, 2026, experienced a great shock with a decision made months later. The championship that Senegal celebrated with enthusiasm two months ago was revoked by the decision and awarded to Morocco.
A change of throne occurred in the Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco was declared the 3-0 winner by default in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations, after Senegal withdrew from the match, according to FIFA.
THE CHAMPION HAS CHANGED HANDS
The Appeals Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) decided to revalidate the results of the final match and declared Senegal the loser by default. Following this decision, the championship passed to Morocco. Senegal, whose jersey is worn by Galatasaray player Ismael Jakobs, will return the trophy to Morocco.
MOROCCO'S APPEAL WAS ACCEPTED
In the statement regarding the accepted appeal application from Morocco, CAF stated, "The Appeals Committee of the Confederation of African Football today decided that the Senegal National Team lost the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 Final Match by default, in accordance with Article 84 of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Regulations, and that the match result was registered as 3-0 in favor of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF)."
CELEBRATED WITH ENTHUSIASM 2 MONTHS AGO
After the final, the streets of Senegal were filled with fans celebrating the historic victory with festivities that lasted until morning. A festive atmosphere was experienced throughout the country.
THE DECISION AT THE TABLE CHANGED EVERYTHING
With the decision of the Appeals Committee of the African Football Federation declaring Senegal the loser by default, Senegal's championship was canceled and the trophy was awarded to Morocco.
A CRISIS THAT GOES DOWN IN HISTORY
This rare event in football history, where a team's championship is taken back months later, has sparked significant controversy.
WHAT HAPPENED?
In the 90+5th minute of the final match, Senegal had a goal disallowed and withdrew from the field in response to Morocco winning a penalty in the 90+8th minute. After about 13 minutes, Senegal returned to the field thanks to the efforts of captain Sadio Mane, and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy managed to save Brahim Diaz's panenka penalty, leading the match to extra time. In the fourth minute of extra time, Senegalese player Pape Gueye scored an incredible goal, bringing the trophy to his country.
Here are some snapshots from those moments: