We will abide by CAS ruling should Senegal appeal decision over AFCON title - CAF President

The President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, says the governing body will respect any verdict delivered by the Court of Arbitration for Sport as the dispute over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title heads for international arbitration.

His comments come in the wake of a dramatic decision by CAF’s Appeals Board on March 17 to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the tournament final played in January.

Citing provisions under Articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations, the body awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory by forfeiture.

The ruling hinged on a 15-minute walk-off staged by Senegal’s players in protest against a late penalty awarded to the hosts.

Although the match resumed and Senegal went on to win after extra time, the Appeals Board concluded that the protest amounted to a terminal forfeiture under the rules.

Speaking a day later, Motsepe underlined the right of member associations to challenge CAF decisions beyond the continent.

“I’m told that Senegal is going to appeal, which is very important,” Motsepe said in a video released by CAF.

“Every one of the 54 nations in Africa has a right to pursue their appeals and advance their interests, not only at the highest level in Africa, in CAF, but also at the highest body, which is CAF. We will adhere to and respect the decision that is taken at the highest level," he added.

The controversial verdict has triggered widespread backlash. Senegal’s government has dismissed the decision as “grossly illegal” and is pushing for an independent international probe into alleged corruption within CAF.

Morocco, meanwhile, have been formally recognised as champions, securing their first AFCON title since 1976.