CAF president visits Dakar amid CAN 2025 controversy

Nearly a month after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) controversially stripped Senegal of their CAN 2025 title in favor of Morocco, the organization’s president, Patrice Motsepe, has arrived in Dakar for a high-stakes visit. The decision, which followed a chaotic final in Rabat, has sparked widespread outrage in Senegal, with many questioning the fairness of the process.

What led to the controversial decision?

The CAF reversed the result of the CAN 2025 final, awarding the title to Morocco despite their 1-0 loss to Senegal in extra time on the field. The decision was based on articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations, which the CAF claimed justified Senegal’s forfeiture of the match. Senegal’s federation only received the official ruling three weeks after its announcement, prompting an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS).

Key moments from the final

Senegal players walked off the field for 15 minutes after a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco in stoppage time, followed by a disallowed goal for Senegal.
Brahim Diaz missed a penalty shootout attempt for Morocco after attempting a panenka.
The CAF ultimately declared Senegal’s team “forfeit”, awarding a 3-0 technical victory to Morocco.

Senegal’s government demands transparency

In response to the decision, the Senegalese government called for an international investigation, citing “suspicions of corruption” within CAF‘s leadership. Patrice Motsepe has defended the organization, emphasizing its commitment to independence and fairness in disciplinary matters.

Motsepe’s agenda in Dakar

Patrice Motsepe‘s visit to Dakar follows his announcement that he would travel to both Senegal and Morocco to promote unity within African football. His itinerary includes:

A visit to Gorée Island, a historic site linked to the transatlantic slave trade, located off the coast of Dakar.
A meeting with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye at the presidential palace.
A press conference scheduled for 5:30 PM local time (17:30 GMT / 19:30 CEST) at a hotel in Dakar.

The CAF president was welcomed upon arrival by Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF).

Reactions and tensions in Senegal

The decision has fueled anger across Senegal, with fans and officials alike expressing frustration over the perceived injustice. Many see the ruling as a betrayal of fair play and demand accountability from CAF‘s leadership. Motsepe’s visit is seen as an attempt to ease tensions, though skepticism remains high.

Follow updates on the CAN 2025 controversy and the latest developments in African football.