"Unacceptable and Unfair”: Senegal Fires Back at CAF, Moves to Reclaim AFCON Title

Africa: Senegal has launched a blistering response to the Confederation of African Football’s decision to overturn its Africa Cup of Nations victory, with football authorities in Dakar vowing to fight what they describe as an unjust and damaging ruling.

“The decision is unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable,” the Senegalese Football Federation declared, insisting that the outcome of the final was legitimately earned on the pitch and should not be erased by administrative action.

Defending its position, the federation emphasized its next course of action, stating, “To defend its rights and the interests of Senegalese football, the Federation will, as soon as possible, initiate an appeal procedure before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.” The planned move to the Court of Arbitration for Sport sets the stage for a high-profile legal battle.

Senegal maintains that despite the brief disruption during the final, its players returned to the field, completed the match, and secured victory in extra time an effort the federation believes should stand as the final and binding result of the contest.

CAF, however, ruled otherwise after reviewing a protest filed by Morocco, declaring Senegal to have forfeited the match and awarding a 3-0 victory to its opponent. The Confederation of African Football said the decision was in line with its regulations, a justification Senegal strongly disputes.

Reaffirming its stance, the Senegalese Football Federation stressed, “We remain committed to the values of integrity and sporting justice and will keep the public informed of any developments.” As the dispute escalates, Senegal’s challenge now shifts to the global stage, where the final verdict could redefine the outcome of one of Africa’s most controversial football finals.