CAF Announces Hearing Date for AFCON 2025 Final Controversies
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially scheduled a crucial hearing to address the multiple controversies that erupted during the AFCON 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal. The hearing is set for Tuesday, January 27, 2026, marking a significant step in resolving the disciplinary issues that overshadowed what should have been a celebration of African football excellence.
Controversial Final Match Details
The AFCON 2025 final, played on January 18 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, ended with Senegal defeating Morocco 1-0 thanks to Pape Gueye's decisive strike during extra time. However, the match was marred by intense controversy that began when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty while simultaneously disallowing what appeared to be a legitimate Senegal goal.
This controversial decision prompted Senegal's coach, Pape Thiaw, to order his players off the pitch in protest against what he described as clear injustice. The match was paused for approximately 17 minutes before veteran player Sadio Mane intervened, urging his teammates to return to the field and continue the competition.
CAF's Response and Investigation
Following the chaotic final, CAF published an official statement condemning the incidents and confirming that it had opened a comprehensive investigation into the controversies that disrupted the championship match. The Moroccan Football Federation (FMRF) responded by announcing it had initiated legal actions with both CAF and FIFA against Senegal's actions during the match.
The hearing was originally scheduled for Sunday, January 25, but was postponed following a formal request from the Senegal Football Federation for additional time to prepare their defense. CAF agreed to this postponement to ensure due process and fairness for all parties involved, demonstrating the organization's commitment to thorough and impartial proceedings.
Disciplinary Committee Preparations
In preparation for the hearing, Senegalese official Ousmane Kane, who serves as the head of CAF's disciplinary committee, has temporarily stepped down from his position. CAF confirmed this decision was made to avoid any potential conflict of interest and to maintain the neutrality and credibility of the upcoming proceedings.
The CAF Executive and Disciplinary Committee will meet to deliberate on all aspects of the controversies that tainted the AFCON final before making any official decisions. This includes reviewing petitions, evidence, and defenses submitted by both the Moroccan and Senegalese football federations.
Addressing Rumors and Speculation
Despite widespread rumors suggesting that CAF had already handed Pape Thiaw a life ban and declared the final void, leaving both countries without the trophy, these reports remain completely unsubstantiated. The African football governing body has clarified that no decisions have been made regarding the incident, and all outcomes will be determined through the proper disciplinary channels following the scheduled hearing.
Additional footage from the final has surfaced, revealing the exchange between Moroccan head coach Walid Regragui and Pape Thiaw before the Senegal players left the pitch. Reports indicate that Regragui attempted to calm his counterpart, but Thiaw remained firm in his decision to protest what he perceived as unfair officiating.
The upcoming hearing represents a critical moment for African football governance, as CAF seeks to address the controversies while maintaining the integrity of the continent's premier football competition. The decisions made during this process will likely set important precedents for how similar incidents are handled in future tournaments.
