AFCON 2025 final dispute deepens as Senegal–Morocco controversy moves beyond the pitch

The fallout from the Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal has taken a dramatic turn, with the dispute now extending far beyond the pitch and into legal and public arenas.

According to Spanish media outlet Diario AS, the controversy continues to unfold after Senegal were initially declared winners on the field, only for the Confederation of African Football (Confederation of African Football) to withhold official confirmation of the title amid ongoing challenges from Morocco.

At the heart of the dispute are a series of allegations and counterclaims that have raised serious questions about the conduct of both teams and the management of the final.

Reports suggest there may have been a premeditated boycott by Senegal, with claims that the team ignored recommended transport and logistical arrangements ahead of the match.

Concerns have also been raised over accommodation conditions at Morocco’s Mohammed VI Complex, which some sources say became a point of contention in the buildup to the final.

The match itself reportedly descended into chaos deep into stoppage time, specifically in the 97th minute, following a highly controversial penalty decision.

The incident appeared to trigger an extraordinary reaction from the Senegal squad, with players allegedly staging a walk-off from the pitch.

Some members of the team were even reported to have gone live on social media from the dressing room in the aftermath.

Further complicating matters are claims that refereeing officials were instructed to avoid issuing bookings in an effort to “preserve the match,” a detail that has only added to the growing tension surrounding the final.

In a rare public stance, CAF has described the situation as “unacceptable” from both sides, signalling its concern over the escalating dispute and the damage it could cause to the integrity of the competition.

With both federations now preparing for a potential legal showdown, the outcome of the tournament remains unresolved, leaving football fans across the continent waiting for clarity on one of the most contentious finals in recent memory.