Can 2025 Final Dispute Reaches Next Phase at TAS

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) escalated its legal challenge on March 25 by filing an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. This move follows the African Football Confederation’s (CAF) controversial decision to award the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final to Morocco on a technicality, despite Senegal’s on-field 1-0 victory. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) now has until May 7 to submit its defense.

procedural timeline and key deadlines

The dispute has now entered a structured legal phase. The CAS has set a strict deadline of May 7 for the FRMF to file its defense memorandum—a standard procedural window after an appeal is lodged. The FSF, acting as the appellant, has already submitted its initial arguments and now awaits the opposing side’s response within the same 20-day window.

However, the FSF’s request for a temporary suspension has temporarily halted progress. This means no definitive hearing schedule or timeline has been established yet. The CAS is currently reviewing written submissions from all parties before advancing to oral testimonies.

the roots of the conflict

The controversy stems from events during the January 18 final, when Senegalese players walked off the pitch for several minutes in protest against a late penalty awarded to Morocco. While Senegal had originally celebrated their victory, the CAF’s Appeals Jury overturned the result on March 17, handing the title to Morocco via a technical decision.

The FSF is challenging not only the CAF’s ruling but also the FRMF, arguing that both entities acted in a manner detrimental to Senegal’s interests. The legal battle is now transitioning into a formal arbitration process, which typically involves extensive written exchanges before oral arguments are heard.

what’s next in the arbitration process

Following the submission of written defenses, the CAS will appoint a three-member arbitration panel: one arbitrator chosen by Senegal, one by the defense (CAF and Morocco), and a neutral chairperson designated by the CAS. Once the panel is formed, a hearing will be scheduled where both sides can present oral arguments.

While the CAS aims to resolve disputes efficiently, the complexity of this case suggests a prolonged deliberation. A final ruling may take several months, leaving the outcome of the 2025 AFCON final unresolved for the foreseeable future.

For now, Senegal’s on-field triumph remains in limbo, awaiting the arbitration body’s final verdict.