CAN 2025 final dispute between Morocco and Senegal awaits CAS ruling

Tuesday 21 July 2026 - 20:16

By: Sahili Aya

CAN 2025 final dispute between Morocco and Senegal awaits CAS ruling

The legal dispute surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) is set to continue, with a final decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) not expected before a planned hearing later this year.

The controversy, which has attracted significant attention across African football, remains unresolved months after the dramatic final played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

CAS hearing expected in September or October

The FSF challenged the outcome of the case before CAS, the highest sports arbitration body based in Lausanne, Switzerland, after CAF took disciplinary action following events during the final.

While many observers expected a ruling during the summer of 2026 after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup, reports indicate that a hearing is now likely to take place in September or October.

According to information reported by sports law outlet IUSPORT, citing sources close to one of the parties involved, a decision before that hearing would not be possible.

Representatives of Morocco, Senegal and CAF are expected to participate in proceedings before the arbitration panel.

Controversy followed dramatic final

The dispute dates back to the closing stages of the CAN 2025 final, when Senegal faced Morocco in Rabat.

After a late penalty decision in favor of Morocco, Senegal coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players and staff to temporarily leave the pitch in protest. The Senegalese team returned approximately 15 minutes later, allowing the match to continue.

Morocco's Brahim Diaz missed the penalty attempt, and Senegal eventually secured victory during extra time.

Legal battle over disciplinary decision

Following the match, CAF examined the incidents and later imposed a decision that affected the official outcome of the tournament, leading the Senegalese federation to seek arbitration through CAS.

The case has since become one of the most significant legal disputes in African football, raising questions about disciplinary procedures, sporting conduct and the authority of football governing bodies.

The upcoming hearing is expected to determine the final legal outcome of a controversy that has continued to divide football supporters across the continent.