CAN 2025 title dispute: Senegal challenges Morocco’s victory at TAS

The legal saga surrounding the CAN 2025 has taken a dramatic turn. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has set a strict deadline of 7 May 2026 for the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) to submit its defense brief in response to the appeal filed by Senegal. This tight timeline puts immense pressure on the Moroccan federation and marks a critical phase in a case that has gripped African football for weeks.

Morocco faces TAS hearing over disputed CAN 2025 title

Recall that the CAN 2025 final ended in controversy at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on 18 January. After a goalless draw at full-time, a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco led to Senegalese players walking off the pitch for 15 minutes. They later returned and won the match in extra time through an own goal by Pape Gueye. However, the CAF Appeals Jury overturned the result on 17 March, declaring Senegal forfeit and awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory. Now, Senegal is challenging this decision at the CAS, insisting on regaining the continental crown.

Legal showdown: Senegal vs Morocco at CAS

The process has now moved into its standard procedural phase. Senegal had requested an expedited hearing, which Morocco opposed, forcing both sides to adhere to regular timelines. Following Morocco’s defense submission on 7 May, the African Football Confederation (CAF) and Senegal will have the chance to respond. An in-person hearing at the CAS headquarters in Lausanne appears likely, where key witnesses may be called. Both federations are expected to engage top international sports law firms, turning this appeal into a high-stakes diplomatic and legal confrontation.

With a final verdict unlikely before late 2026, African football fans face a prolonged period of uncertainty. A typical CAS case can take six to twelve months to resolve, meaning the identity of the true 2025 African champion may remain unresolved for over a year. Whatever the outcome, the decision will be binding and legally unchallengeable. Should the CAS overturn the CAF ruling, it would send shockwaves through the governance of African football.