Fresh investigation sparks AFCON 2025 final controversy as possible sanctions loom

A fresh wave of controversy has engulfed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final following a major investigation by Le Monde, which has raised serious questions about events that unfolded during the closing stages of the match.

According to the report, Senegal are alleged to have walked off the pitch in the 97th minute—an action that, under Confederation of African Football (CAF) regulations, would typically result in an automatic forfeit.

Such a development, if confirmed, could have significant implications for the outcome of the tournament.

The investigation further claims that match officials were instructed not to issue red cards to Senegal players during the incident, reportedly in an effort to prevent a live broadcast scandal.

These allegations, if substantiated, could deepen scrutiny of the handling of the final and raise broader concerns about governance and officiating standards in African football.

The situation is now expected to escalate beyond the pitch, with the case likely to be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Should the rules be enforced strictly, there is a possibility that the AFCON title could be revoked and reassigned, depending on the outcome of any legal proceedings.

As it stands, CAF and tournament stakeholders have yet to issue an official response to the claims, leaving the football community awaiting clarity on one of the most contentious developments in recent AFCON history.