Senegal's national team has been handed another chance to reclaim their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) confirmed an October 8, 2026 hearing in Lausanne to review Senegal's appeal against CAF's decision to award the 2025 AFCON to Morocco by default. The January 18 final in Rabat descended into chaos after a stoppage-time VAR penalty for Morocco, sparking a crisis between the two federations.
What happened in Rabat in January?
On January 18, 2025, Morocco faced Senegal in the AFCON final at Rabat Stadium. In added time, the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco after a video review. Brahim Díaz missed against Édouard Mendy, but the chaos erupted: Senegal, led by manager Pape Thiaw, walked off the pitch before returning 15 minutes later. Senegalese fans clashed with security forces, escalating an already volatile situation. Senegal won 1-0 in extra time through Pape Gueye, but CAF overturned the result on March 17, 2025.
CAF declared Senegal forfeited and awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory. Senegal's federation has challenged the ruling, citing opaque procedures and refereeing errors. CAS stresses that only official updates on its website are valid, warning against circulating misinformation.
Why this case matters for Senegal
For the Lions, this final is about more than a trophy: it's a matter of honor and fairness. The CAF decision was widely seen as unjust by fans and players, who believe they were robbed of a legitimate title. Senegal, runners-up in 2019 and 2021, now eyes the 2026 World Cup with a rebuilding squad. A favorable CAS ruling could restore confidence in a team searching for identity.
Senegal's last match ended in a 3-2 loss to Belgium on July 1, 2026. Their recent form over five games stands at two wins and three defeats (LLWWL), with two straight losses. Despite the turmoil, the players remain focused on World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
What to expect from the October 8 hearing?
CAS has not set a date for its ruling, noting it won't be delivered the same day. Arguments could stretch for hours, with complex legal points to unpack. Senegal's federation sought an expedited process, but both sides failed to agree.
The Lions of Teranga are banking on this hearing to make their case. If CAS sides with Senegal, CAF must revisit its decision and stage a new final. If rejected, Morocco keeps the title and Senegal must move on ahead of World Cup 2026 qualifiers, where every point will matter.
