The Senegalese Football Federation has declared it
will not return the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy, following a shocking
decision by the Confederation of African Football to strip the country of the
title.
Football fans were left stunned on Tuesday, March 18,
when CAF reversed the tournament result nearly two months after the final,
awarding a 3–0 victory to the Morocco national football team.
Senegal had originally won the match, with Pape Gueye
scoring the decisive goal in extra time. However, the game was marred by
controversy after Senegal players walked off the pitch during regulation time
in protest.
The protest followed two contentious decisions: the
disallowing of a goal by Ismaila Sarr and a late penalty awarded to Morocco
after a VAR review. Senegal’s coach, Pape Thiaw, was seen urging his players
off the field, although they later returned to continue the match.
Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and the
match proceeded to extra time where Senegal secured victory—before CAF’s
post-match ruling overturned the result.
Reacting to the decision, Abdoulaye Sow, Secretary
General of the Senegalese federation, strongly criticized CAF, alleging
corruption and insisting the country would not surrender the trophy.
“The Confederation of African Football is corrupt, and
global reactions to this decision show widespread outrage,” Sow said.
He added that discussions are ongoing with relevant
stakeholders, stressing that Senegal remains confident in its position.
“The fight is far from over. I want to reassure all
Senegalese people—Senegal is right, and victory is on its side. The trophy will
not leave the country,” he said.
The dispute has further intensified debate over
fairness, governance, and credibility in African football.
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