Dakar: Several Senegalese players have condemned the decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board to nullify the final result of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and strip them of the title. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board ruled that Senegal breached Article 84 of the regulations, which prohibits staging a walk-off. As a result, Senegal were deemed to have forfeited the game, and the final result was nullified. Applying the regulation, Morocco were declared champions with a 3-0 scoreline against Senegal as punishment for the temporary walk-off.
According to Ghana Web, the Teranga Lions players expressed disappointment in the decision, insisting that football matches should be decided on the pitch, not in boardrooms. Idrissa Gana Gueye, a midfielder, noted that their achievement cannot be erased, as the football world recognizes it. He emphasized the unity and dignity of the Senegalese people, stating that their experience in Rabat remains unforgettable.
Sadio Man©, the Al Nassr forward, criticized the decision, highlighting concerns about corruption within CAF. He expressed frustration over how off-pitch decisions overshadow the efforts and passion of players and fans across Africa. Path© Ciss, a Rayo Vallecano midfielder, was among the first to react on social media, dismissing the ruling with a defiant message.
Yehvann Diouf, the team's goalkeeper, shared a photo of the team lifting the trophy, emphasizing the global recognition of their victory. Defender El Hadji Malick Diouf stressed the importance of earning achievements on the field rather than through questionable decisions.
Meanwhile, the Senegalese Football Federation described the decision as a 'travesty' and vowed to appeal the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.