FEATURE: European media divided as Morocco’s AFCON 2025 title sparks controversy and debate

The European press has been abuzz following the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) unprecedented decision to award Morocco the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, overturning Senegal’s on-field 1-0 victory.

The ruling, announced on March 17, 2026, followed a successful Moroccan appeal, citing the temporary 14-minute withdrawal of Senegalese players as a violation of Articles 82 and 84 of CAF regulations, resulting in a 3-0 victory on paper for Morocco.

British outlets highlighted the seismic nature of the decision. The Independent described the reversal as a dramatic turnaround in a final that had initially ended in Senegal’s favour after extra time.

The Times summed up the controversy succinctly: “Senegal won on the pitch and lost on paper,” raising questions about public confidence in the fairness of African football competitions. ESPN referred to it as a “stunning handover of the title,” noting that Senegal retains the right to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

In Spain, Confidencial called the ruling a “global scandal,” emphasising Morocco’s official crowning as African champions after Senegal was deemed to have “lost by default” due to the temporary walk-off. Marca labelled the development “unexpected,” while Mundo Deportivo noted that Morocco’s sporting achievement came through a highly unusual and controversial conclusion.

Italian media, led by La Gazzetta dello Sport, criticised the refereeing chaos and the Senegalese players’ protest during the final. Reports described the Congolese referee’s performance as “diabolical,” detailing the disallowed Senegalese goal, Morocco’s awarded penalty, and the temporary player walk-off. Italian outlets highlighted the disciplinary sanctions expected against Senegal and coach Pape Thiaw, but expressed shock that the title itself was ultimately withdrawn.

Headlines such as “Unbelievable… After two months, the Africa Cup of Nations is awarded to Morocco on paper” circulated widely.

Portuguese outlets echoed the sentiment. O Jogo described CAF’s decision as a “shock,” while A Bola called it a “resounding surprise,” reflecting the widespread disbelief across Europe at the controversial ruling.

Across the continent, the European media consensus reflects a mixture of astonishment, criticism, and debate over whether Morocco’s title represents a sporting achievement or a scandal, highlighting the extraordinary and contentious nature of this chapter in African football history.