Motsepe Breaks Silence on AFCON 2025 Controversy After Senegal Stripped of Title

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe has addressed the storm surrounding the decision to take the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title away from Senegal and award it to Morocco, stressing the need to protect the integrity of the competition.

CAF’s Appeals Board delivered a historic verdict on Tuesday, ruling that Senegal had violated Article 82 of the governing body’s regulations. The breach stemmed from a dramatic moment in the final when Senegal’s players walked off the pitch during their clash with Morocco. Although they later returned and went on to win in extra time, the incident ultimately led to the title being revoked.

The controversy had already seen both nations sanctioned by CAF’s Disciplinary Board. However, Morocco challenged the initial outcome, prompting a review that concluded with the Appeals Board’s decision on March 17.

The ruling has triggered widespread criticism across the football world, with many accusing CAF of damaging the reputation of African football. Others believe the decision raises further doubts about fairness on the continent. Despite the backlash, Motsepe has maintained that firm action was necessary.

Motsepe Explains Why Action Was Necessary

Speaking on CAF TV, Motsepe did not hide his dissatisfaction with the events that unfolded during the final, emphasizing that such incidents cannot be ignored.

“I previously expressed my extreme disappointment with what happened in that final,” he said.

He went on to explain that the disruption undermined years of progress made by CAF in strengthening governance and credibility within African football.

“What took place in that match affects the work we have done to build trust, ensure fairness, and uphold ethical standards. It puts into question the credibility of results and the progress we have achieved over time,” Motsepe added.

According to him, the incident also exposed ongoing concerns rooted in the past. He pointed out that when he assumed office, there were already lingering doubts about the impartiality of referees and match officials.

“We have made significant improvements, but suspicion still exists because of historical challenges. That legacy cannot be erased overnight,” he explained.

Concerns Raised Over Appeal Board Independence

The decision has also sparked debate about the independence of CAF’s judicial structures, with critics suggesting that the Appeals Board may not be entirely free from external influence.

Currently, the board is made up of officials from across the continent, including a president from Nigeria, a vice president from Cape Verde, and members representing Tunisia, Mauritania, Togo, Djibouti, Namibia, Malawi, and DR Congo.

Motsepe acknowledged these concerns but defended the process used to appoint members, insisting that transparency and credibility were top priorities.

Motsepe Dismisses Claims of External Influence

Addressing speculation that the board may have been influenced, Motsepe clarified that CAF had adopted a new approach when forming its judicial bodies.

“We took a different route compared to the past. Each member association and regional zone was asked to nominate respected legal professionals, including judges and lawyers,” he said.

He stressed that the aim was to ensure that decisions made by CAF’s disciplinary structures would be widely respected and trusted.

“If you examine the composition of the board, you will see individuals with strong reputations across Africa. However, we understand that building trust requires consistency over time, and we are committed to that,” Motsepe noted.

Senegal Free to Appeal as CAF Awaits CAS Decision

Motsepe has welcomed Senegal’s intention to challenge the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), reaffirming CAF’s commitment to fairness.

“I have been informed that Senegal will take the matter to CAS. Every one of our 54 member associations has the right to seek justice at the highest level, and we will fully respect whatever decision is made,” he said.

He concluded by assuring that no nation would receive preferential treatment, reiterating CAF’s determination to address shortcomings exposed by the final.

“No country will be favoured or disadvantaged. We take what happened very seriously, and we have already begun taking steps to correct the areas where we fell short,” Motsepe stated.