Morocco FA Reacts as CAF Appeal Board Crowns Atlas Lions AFCON 2025 Champions

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has finally responded following the historic decision by the CAF Appeal Board to officially declare Morocco winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The ruling comes after a dramatic turn of events surrounding the final. Senegal had initially secured a 1-0 victory on the pitch back in January and celebrated what appeared to be a successful title defense. However, the game was overshadowed by controversy after Senegal’s players briefly walked off in protest over a VAR-awarded penalty.

That incident ultimately proved decisive. CAF reviewed the situation and took the unprecedented step of stripping Senegal of the title, instead awarding Morocco a walkover victory and confirming the Atlas Lions as AFCON 2025 champions.

In reaction, the Moroccan FA released an official statement via its X (formerly Twitter) account, acknowledging the decision while maintaining its stance throughout the process.

“The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has taken note of the decision issued by the CAF Appeals Committee,” the statement read.

“The Federation wishes to recall that its approach has never been intended to challenge the sporting performance of the teams participating in this competition, but solely to request the application of the competition’s regulations.