The Senegalese national football team has officially filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) following the Confederation of African Football (CAF)‘s decision to revoke their CAN 2025 title. This move comes just one week after the governing body announced that Morocco would be declared the winners of the tournament after Senegal walked off the pitch during the final.

The controversial final saw a dramatic finish when the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco, which was missed by Brahim Díaz. In protest, the Senegalese players left the field before returning minutes later. The CAF ruled this conduct as grounds for disqualification.

what the senegalese federation is demanding

The Senegalese Football Federation is seeking to have the CAF’s decision annulled and is demanding the restoration of the title they earned on the field. Senegal won the final in extra time with a goal from Pape Gueye. The federation argues that the walk-off was a protest against refereeing decisions and not an abandonment of the match.

the cas process and timeline

The CAS has confirmed receiving the appeal and stated that an arbitration panel will be formed to review the case. While no hearing date has been set yet, the CAS has emphasized its commitment to a swift resolution. “The CAS is fully equipped to handle this type of dispute,” said Matthieu Reeb, CAS Director General. “We understand the urgency for a final decision and will ensure the arbitration process is conducted efficiently while guaranteeing a fair trial for all parties involved.”

background of the controversy

The CAN 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco remains one of the most debated matches in African football history. The decision to award Morocco the title by default has sparked widespread debate among fans, players, and football authorities. The Senegalese side maintains that the walk-off was a symbolic protest and not a forfeiture of the match.

what happens next?

With the CAS now involved, the legal battle over the CAN 2025 title is set to unfold. Fans and stakeholders await a final ruling that could either uphold the CAF’s decision or restore justice to the team that triumphed on the pitch. The outcome will have significant implications for both nations and the future of African football governance.