CAF set for the laborious task of demanding AFCON winners medal from Senegal players and officials after title verdict

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) now faces what could become one of the most awkward and complex operations in its recent history.

The body is set for the laborious task of retrieving the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 winners’ medals from the Senegalese team and officials, following the unprecedented decision to strip them of the continental title.

Senegal had celebrated a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco in the final held in Rabat on January 18.

The match was marked by high drama, including a temporary walk-off by the Lions of Teranga in protest of a late penalty. Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye had scored the winning goal in extra time, cementing what was initially seen as the country’s second AFCON crown in history.

CAF initially upheld the on-field result while imposing disciplinary sanctions. However, after Morocco successfully appealed the decision, the governing body issued a historic ruling: Senegal’s temporary withdrawal violated Articles 82 and 84 of the tournament regulations, and as a result, the title and a 3-0 victory were awarded to Morocco.

This reversal leaves CAF with the delicate task of reclaiming the medals and trophies that were already awarded to the Senegalese players and officials. Logistically, the process presents challenges, as the medals are in the possession of players who have celebrated publicly and shared their triumph with fans.

Politically and emotionally, the move is equally complex, given the widespread resentment and disbelief among Senegalese supporters, players, and officials.

The Senegalese Football Federation has yet to publicly indicate how it will respond to the recall, but social media reactions suggest that retrieving the medals may not be straightforward.

Many players have expressed frustration and ridicule over the ruling, while commentators, former coaches, and football analysts continue to debate the fairness and implications of the decision.

CAF’s statement reiterated that the retrieval of medals is a procedural necessity, emphasising that regulations must be enforced regardless of public sentiment. The process will likely involve official correspondence with the Senegalese Football Federation and a coordinated effort to ensure the physical return of the trophies, medals, and any related ceremonial awards.

As Morocco prepares to celebrate its newly confirmed championship, the focus now shifts to one of the most unusual administrative tasks in African football history.

The coming weeks will test CAF’s ability to enforce its decision without escalating tensions, highlighting once again how off-field rulings can have consequences as dramatic as those scored on the field.