"Senegal won on the pitch": Patrick Vieira confident ahead of CAS hearing on 2025 AFCON final

With the Court of Arbitration for Sport set to open the hearing on 8 October regarding Senegal’s appeal concerning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, the head coach of the Lions of Teranga has spoken out on the proceedings.

Patrick Vieira said he was surprised by how long it had taken to reach this new stage. However, he believes there is no doubt about the sporting result of the final. In his view, the outcome of the proceedings will not necessarily change people’s perceptions.

“I’m quite surprised by how long this decision has taken. Whatever the decision, I consider that Senegal won on the pitch. As for whether the decision will change anything for people on the outside? Everyone will interpret this decision as they see fit. I believe that, whatever the decision, Senegal will come out on top.”

Senegal had won the final on the pitch against Morocco on 18 January 2026, with a score of 1–0. However, a month later, a decision by CAF awarded the title to the Atlas Lions. The Senegalese Football Federation then appealed to the CAS to challenge this decision.