Why the decision to strip Senegal of its can 2025 title was delayed

The outcome of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final has sparked intense debate. Two months after Senegal’s victory, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) revoked the title, awarding it to Morocco instead. This reversal, prompted by a Moroccan appeal, has left many questioning the timing of the decision.

The controversy centers on the delayed verdict. While the final match took place on January 18, the CAF only issued its ruling on March 18—an unusually long gap in high-stakes football adjudication. This delay has intensified scrutiny over the fairness and transparency of the process.

why the wait? understanding the timeline

The primary factor behind the postponement was the complexity of the case. Morocco filed an appeal shortly after the final, arguing that Senegal’s team had violated FIFA regulations by leaving the pitch prematurely. The initial ruling, handed down swiftly, penalized Senegal’s coach with a five-match suspension. However, Morocco contested this decision, prolonging the deliberations.

According to Nathalie Iannetta, Director of Sports at Radio France, the delay stemmed from a legal back-and-forth. “Morocco challenged the ruling under FIFA Articles 82 and 84, which state that abandoning the field results in a forfeit. The first verdict was issued, but Morocco appealed again, leading to the final decision being rendered late at night, catching everyone off guard.”

reactions from the football community

The CAF’s decision has divided opinions. Some argue for strict adherence to regulations, while others believe a trophy earned on the pitch should not be stripped away months later. The Senegalese Football Federation has vowed to challenge the ruling in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), setting the stage for further legal battles.

Experts and fans alike have described the final as “the longest in football history,” emphasizing the emotional and legal toll of the ordeal. As the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: the 2025 CAN final will be remembered not just for its on-field drama, but for the unprecedented controversies that followed.