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Senegal Stripped of AFCON Crown in Unprecedented Ruling
17 Mar
Summary
- Morocco awarded AFCON title 58 days after final match.
- Senegal players walked off field, forfeiting the final match.
- CAF appeal board ruled Senegal infringed regulations, awarding Morocco a 3-0 win.
Morocco has been awarded the Africa Cup of Nations title following an unprecedented ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) appeal board. Senegal, the defending champions, were stripped of their title 58 days after the final match, which they had initially won 1-0.
The controversy unfolded on January 18, when Senegal's players walked off the pitch in protest after a penalty was awarded to their hosts, Morocco. This walk-off lasted approximately 17 minutes before the players returned, and the penalty was subsequently missed. Senegal went on to secure victory in extra time.
However, Morocco lodged an appeal, which CAF's appeal board found admissible and upheld. The board declared the Senegal National Team to have forfeited the Final, infringing Article 82 of CAF regulations. Consequently, Morocco was awarded a 3-0 victory and the championship title.
Further sanctions included various fines related to the match. While Morocco's appeal regarding interference in the VAR area resulted in a confirmed $100,000 fine, some appeals concerning player fines and ballboy conduct were partially upheld or dismissed, with penalties reduced.
