The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has introduced fresh regulations following the controversy that overshadowed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Morocco.
Earlier today, May 13, CAF president Patrice Motsepe admitted that officiating and match management “deficiencies” played a part in the chaotic ending of the 2025 AFCON final.
The final in Rabat initially saw Senegal declared champions after a 1-0 extra-time win. The result was later overturned by a CAF appeal board, which awarded the title to Morocco after disciplinary rulings linked to Senegal’s protest walk-off following a late VAR penalty decision.
The match sparked widespread criticism after security clashes inside the stadium and accusations of unsportsmanlike behaviour, including the “towelgate” controversy involving Senegal’s goalkeeper and ball boys.
Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Motsepe confirmed CAF had carried out an internal review.
“We’ve done good work in terms of building the confidence and the trust amongst the football community of our referees and of our VAR,” he said.
“But there are still these challenges, and we’ve recognised what the deficiencies were that led to the unfortunate incidents we had in Morocco.
“We’ve introduced new laws, new regulations which will ensure that doesn’t happen again.”
Motsepe added that work is ongoing to improve officiating standards and VAR consistency across Africa.
“We are continuing to improve the system, because African football must be judged by the highest standards of fairness and integrity,” he said.
themomentng reports that the Senegal Football Federation has labelled the decision a “robbery” and taken the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, where a final ruling is pending.
“We are waiting for the judgment of the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and African football is continuing to grow and develop,” Motsepe said. “Whatever decision comes, we will respect and implement.”
CAF said the new measures focus on VAR governance, security coordination and clearer disciplinary procedures to prevent a repeat of the final’s turmoil.
