Senegal’s chances of overturning AFCON final decision look slim, says French lawyer

Morocco have a strong chance of prevailing in their legal dispute with Senegal over the controversial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, according to French lawyer Roman Bizini.

Bizini believes Senegal’s appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) faces significant legal obstacles, arguing that the regulations governing the competition could favour Morocco.

The dispute stems from the incidents during the AFCON final between the two nations, with the Senegalese Football Federation challenging the decision that followed the controversial events.

AFCON regulations could favour Morocco

In his legal assessment of the case, Bizini identified Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON regulations as important provisions that could influence the outcome.

The articles stipulate that a team that leaves the pitch without the referee’s permission is liable to be punished with a defeat.

According to the French lawyer, CAS will primarily examine the applicable regulations and legal provisions when considering the dispute.

He believes this could make Senegal’s position difficult, given the requirements outlined in the competition’s rules.

Senegal’s possible legal arguments

However, Bizini acknowledged that Senegal could build its defence around the interpretation and application of the relevant regulations.

One possible argument is that the rules are intended to punish teams that refuse to resume play rather than those that temporarily leave the field before returning to complete a match.

Senegal could also challenge how the term ‘team’ was interpreted when the penalty was applied, particularly because some players remained on the pitch during the incident.

However, Bizini believes this argument could face difficulties under Article 3.1 of the Laws of the Game, issued by the International Football Council, which requires a minimum of seven players for a match to continue.

Senegal face difficult CAS battle

Based on his interpretation of the regulations, Bizini concluded that Senegal’s appeal faces considerable legal challenges.

He believes Morocco have the stronger legal position, while the chances of Senegal successfully overturning the contested decision appear limited.

The final outcome, however, will depend on the proceedings before the Court of Arbitration for Sport and its eventual ruling.