The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) Appeal Board has ruled that Senegal forfeited the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, handing victory to Morocco with a 3–0 scoreline.

In a landmark decision, the board determined that the Senegal national football team breached tournament regulations during the final of the TotalEnergies AFCON Morocco 2025. As a result, the match has been officially awarded to the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF).

The ruling followed an appeal filed by the Moroccan football federation challenging an earlier decision by CAF’s Disciplinary Board. The Appeal Board not only upheld Morocco’s protest but also set aside the initial ruling, citing violations under Articles 82 and 84 of AFCON regulations by Senegal’s team.

According to the verdict, the conduct of the Senegalese side warranted a forfeiture, effectively overturning the outcome of the final and confirming Morocco as champions of the tournament.

In addition to the forfeiture ruling, the Appeal Board addressed several disciplinary matters arising from the match.

Morocco international Ismaël Saibari was found guilty of misconduct but received a reduced sanction. His initial fine of $100,000 was overturned, and his suspension was adjusted to two CAF matches, with one suspended.

The board also ruled on incidents involving matchday organization. The Moroccan federation was held responsible for the conduct of ball boys, with its fine reduced to $50,000. However, a separate $100,000 fine relating to interference around the VAR review area was upheld.

Additionally, a fine linked to a laser incident during the match was reduced to $10,000.

All other appeals and requests were dismissed.

The decision marks a dramatic conclusion to the tournament, with Morocco now officially recognized as AFCON 2025 champions following one of the most contentious finals in recent history.