Abdoulaye Sow declares “The cup will not leave the country”

Abdoulaye Sow, Secretary General of the Senegalese Football Federation, has insisted that Senegal will not relinquish the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy following the controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to award the title to Morocco.

Speaking amid widespread national outrage, Sow criticised CAF as “corrupt” and emphasised that Senegal intends to fight to maintain its claim to the title.

“The cup will not leave the country!” he declared, noting that the federation’s president is already in discussions to challenge the ruling.

Sow sought to reassure the public that Senegal has both legal and international backing for its stance. “The fight is far from over.

I want to reassure all Senegalese people. Senegal has the right and victory is on its side,” he said, underscoring the FSF’s determination to secure what it considers a legitimate claim.

The general secretary described the federation’s objective as converting public indignation into a constructive campaign that combines moral, legal, and sporting efforts.

He indicated that Senegal intends to pursue all available avenues to restore the outcome of the final, asserting the national team’s achievements on the pitch remain undeniable.

The remarks follow CAF’s decision to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 victory in the final and award the title to Morocco by default, a move that has generated condemnation from players, former internationals, and officials across Africa and beyond.

For the FSF, Sow emphasised, the priority is to protect the integrity of national football and ensure the country’s success is recognised.

By framing the controversy as both a legal and moral battle, the federation aims to maintain momentum in support of the team and preserve the pride of Senegalese supporters.

Sow’s statement signals that the dispute over the 2025 AFCON title is far from resolved, with the federation prepared to continue challenging CAF’s decision on multiple fronts.