‘The rules were not followed,’ Samir Sobha makes explosive accusations about the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final

The president of the Mauritian Football Federation claims that Morocco was robbed against Senegal.

The controversial final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, played on 18 January 2026 in Rabat, continues to be the subject of much debate. Marked by controversial refereeing decisions, the temporary withdrawal of Senegalese players from the pitch, Brahim Diaz's missed penalty and the final victory of the Lions of Teranga, this final will forever remain in the annals of African football history.

Following the latest statement by the president of the Confederation of African Football's Referees Committee, the president of the Mauritian Football Federation has added fuel to the fire.

Samir Sobha, who is also a member of the CAF Executive Committee, has made statements that have shaken the African continent. In an interview with The Guardian, he claimed that Morocco was the victim of injustice in the final.

"I apologise to the Moroccan Football Federation for the injustice they suffered... The rules were not followed as they should have been during this match... They (the Moroccans, ed.) were robbed. It is clear that after the Senegalese team left the pitch, all the players should have been given yellow cards. I'm not saying that the trophy shouldn't be awarded to the Senegalese team. What's done is done. We can't change anything... But we must put our egos aside and recognise that an injustice has been committed against the Moroccan national team. After reviewing the competition rules, I am certain that my position is justified." This is sure to reignite the debate.