The Morocco national team has been declared champions of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturned Senegal’s January victory in the final.
CAF’s appeals board ruled that Senegal “forfeited the final,” turning their 1-0 extra-time win into a 3-0 default victory for host nation Morocco.
The decision follows a chaotic Jan. 18 final in Rabat Pape Thiaw, staged a 15-minute protest on the pitch after Morocco was awarded a decisive penalty. Fans also attempted to storm the field during the stoppage.
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Morocco forward Brahim Diaz’s penalty a slow “Panenka” was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, and Senegal scored the only goal in extra time. Earlier, Senegal’s potential go-ahead goal in stoppage time was disallowed for a foul, though replays showed minimal contact on Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi.
CAF had initially imposed fines exceeding $1 million and bans on players and officials from both teams, but left the result unchanged. The appeals verdict invoked Article 82 of tournament regulations, which states that a team leaving the field without referee authorization forfeits the match.
The ruling may still be challenged at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
