Claude Le Roy questions CAF decision over AFCON 2025 final

Former coach Claude Le Roy has criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following its decision to award Morocco victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, warning that the controversy is “only the beginning”.

CAF’s ruling, which came nearly two months after Senegal’s 1-0 win in the final, has triggered widespread reaction across African and global football.

The governing body upheld Morocco’s appeal, overturning the original result and handing them the title by default.

Le Roy, a long-standing figure in African football, voiced strong concerns about both the decision and its implications when speaking to L’Équipe du Soir.

He suggested that the case is far from settled and could lead to further disputes.

” This is just the beginning of the affair .”

The Frenchman also questioned the basis on which the decision was made, expressing doubts about the arguments put forward to justify the reversal.

” Morocco obtained this victory by default : this is only the beginning of the affair.”

He went on to cast uncertainty over the explanation presented in support of Morocco’s case, indicating that it may not stand up to scrutiny.

” The Moroccan explanation is more than tentative, it’s risky.”

Le Roy also raised concerns about how the match itself had been handled, particularly in relation to officiating decisions.

He suggested that the referee could have managed the situation differently, including issuing individual yellow cards to Senegalese players upon their return to the pitch.

Beyond the events of the final, his criticism extended to the broader structure of African football governance. He questioned the balance of influence within the sport and the perception surrounding certain nations.

“One gets the impression that Morocco, with an all-powerful president, can get away with anything.”

The remarks reflect a growing unease among observers following CAF’s decision, which has become one of the most debated issues in recent African football history.

Le Roy concluded by indicating that the matter is unlikely to end quickly, with the potential for further protests, political responses and legal challenges in the weeks ahead.

Le Sénégal déchu de son titre de champion d’Afrique 🚨🚨

La réaction exclusive de Claude Le Roy dans l’#EDS

« On a l’impression que le Maroc peut tout se permettre. Le Maroc est allé chercher cette victoire sur tapis vert : ce n’est que le début de l’affaire. » pic.twitter.com/lQ8VV3BI0J

— L’Équipe du soir (@lequipedusoir) March 17, 2026