African football split as legends react to CAF’s decision on AFCON title

The Confederation of African Football’s decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to Morocco has triggered a wave of sharply divided reactions among some of the continent’s most prominent former players.

The ruling, delivered by CAF’s appeals committee on Tuesday, has been described as unprecedented and has sparked strong responses from leading figures including Roger Milla, Joseph-Antoine Bell and Mido.

Among the most critical voices was Cameroonian legend Roger Milla, who condemned the decision in strong terms.

“ It’s a disgrace, it’s nonsense. We’ve never seen anything like it. What do we do with the medals? Do we give them back? It’s a way of asking footballers to no longer give any consideration to the AFCON. It’s never been done before! ”

His remarks, reported in L’Equipe, also raised uncertainty over the fate of the trophy and medals, which Senegal has indicated it does not intend to return.

In contrast, his former international teammate Joseph-Antoine Bell offered a markedly different interpretation of events.

Speaking to Le Parisien, Bell argued that the focus should instead be on the circumstances surrounding the final itself.

“ What is truly unprecedented, and what no one is talking about, is the chaos surrounding this final, due to the Senegalese coach’s decision to order his players to leave the pitch. That’s what needs to be denounced. Those involved in this final are the ones who should be held accountable. What needs to be denounced is their lack of fair play. The Senegalese players’ lack of sportsmanship when they left must be condemned. It’s unacceptable; what a pitiful example for young footballers!”

He also criticised Morocco’s “lack of sporting dignity ” in filing a complaint, before adding:

“ Of course African football is tarnished and that’s regrettable, but it’s not tarnished by the CAF’s decision. Those who made it did their job. It’s tarnished by the actors in the final. ”

Bell further defended the timing of the ruling, which came nearly two months after the final, stating:

“ I can understand the surprise. But to reach the right decision, justice needs time, that’s normal. (…) The decision was made as the regulations stipulate. It complies with the law and was communicated within a timeframe that is logical in relation to the procedure. ”

Egyptian former striker Mido delivered an equally forceful response, criticising CAF and the broader implications of the verdict.

“ CAF is a complete joke!! I’ve been saying it for years… The decision to take the Cup away from Senegal and give it to Morocco is the biggest scandal in the history of football. This decision will divide Africa… We look like idiots, a corrupt continent. Africa deserves better! There needs to be a revolution in African football; all these people need to leave today, not tomorrow! ”

Despite his criticism, he clarified his position regarding Morocco:

“ I’m not against Morocco, I love the country and its people… but you lost on the pitch. Senegal was the better team and deserves the title. I wanted to congratulate my Moroccan friends, but I can’t congratulate someone for something won in offices and not on the field. ”

Meanwhile, statements attributed to George Weah supporting Morocco’s legitimacy as champions could not be independently verified and appear to have originated from unconfirmed sources.