2025 AFCON final: Expert calls for match replay amid controversy

The debate over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final has intensified, with some experts suggesting the only way to resolve the dispute is a replay of the match.

Senegal, who won on the field, is challenging Morocco’s title, which was awarded by default following an administrative decision.

Daniel Riolo, columnist for RMC, argues that the fairest solution would be to replay the final.

He points to the clash between on-field results and off-field rulings as the root of the controversy, suggesting that justice could only be served by returning to the pitch.

“Wouldn’t the best solution be to replay this final? The rules are crystal clear. The only problem is that the decision, which is purely a matter of justice, came so late.

The rules should have been applied at the time. I remember that after this final, we said that we risked setting a precedent.

It’s impossible to claim that the Senegalese players’ actions didn’t disturb Morocco or the penalty taker. It’s logical that the rules are being applied now, which is perfectly just because no one should do what Senegal did.”

Riolo’s comments highlight the tension between procedural fairness and the practical challenges of retroactively enforcing rules.

Senegal intends to pursue its claims before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, while Morocco maintains that the administrative decision granting them the trophy was valid.

The situation has sparked wider concerns over the governance and credibility of African football.

With fans and stakeholders questioning the legitimacy of outcomes, the controversy over the 2025 final underscores the need for clear, timely, and consistent application of rules in major tournaments.

As the dispute continues, the idea of replaying the match remains contentious, but some see it as the only way to restore confidence in the integrity of African football competitions.

The AFCON governing bodies face mounting pressure to find a resolution that satisfies both fairness and transparency.