Morocco awarded Africa Cup of Nations title after Senegal's final forfeit The Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned Senegal's victory in the Africa Cup of Nations final, awarding the title to Morocco after ruling the West African nation had forfeited the match. The decision came after an appeals board reviewed the chaotic conclusion of the January 18 final in Rabat, where Senegal players left the field in protest during stoppage time. The ruling declared Senegal's 1-0 win in extra time invalid, granting Morocco a 3-0 default victory. The match, which ended in controversy, saw Senegal's apparent go-ahead goal disallowed minutes before a penalty was awarded to Morocco. TV replays showed minimal contact by Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi, leading to the controversial stoppage-time penalty. Morocco's Brahim Díaz missed the spot kick with a slow chip shot, known as a "Panenka," which was saved by Senegal's goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. Senegal then scored the only goal in extra time, but the result was later overturned. CAF initially imposed fines and bans on Senegal and Morocco players and officials following a disciplinary hearing but left the match outcome unchanged. Senegal's coach, Pape Thiaw, defended the team's actions, while players like Moussa Niakhaté and El Hadji Malick Diouf expressed frustration on social media, with Niakhaté posting an image of himself holding the trophy and Diouf stating the trophy "isn't going anywhere." The Moroccan Football Federation emphasized its commitment to following competition rules, stating its actions were aimed at ensuring regulatory compliance rather than challenging sporting performance. The federation also praised the tournament's participants, calling it a significant moment for African football.#morocco #senegal #confederation_of_african_football #caf #edouard_mendy
