Morocco’s new head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, has backed the decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, describing it as “well-deserved”.
themomentng reports that the ruling, confirmed on Tuesday, March 17, overturned Senegal’s 1-0 win in the final played in Rabat on 18 January. CAF sanctioned the Lions of Teranga after their players briefly walked off in protest when a late penalty was awarded to the hosts during stoppage time.
Although captain Sadio Mane led his teammates back onto the pitch, Morocco missed the spot-kick before Pape Gueye struck in extra time to seal what had initially stood as a win.
Speaking on Thursday while unveiling his first squad for upcoming friendlies against Ecuador and Paraguay, Ouahbi did not hide his satisfaction.
“First of all, I would like to congratulate all Moroccans, the staff, the players and the federation on the good news we got two days ago, which is well-deserved,” he said.
The 49-year-old, who recently replaced Walid Regragui, added that the outcome had lifted spirits across the country.
“This decision pleases everyone,” he said. “But it’s important to focus on the present and the future. My goal is to make the team competitive for the World Cup.”
Morocco’s football federation also welcomed the verdict, praising CAF for its “respect for the rules”.
Senegal, however, have moved swiftly to challenge the outcome. Their federation confirmed it has instructed lawyers to file an appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, branding the ruling “unjust”.
The controversy follows earlier disciplinary action by CAF’s committee at the end of January, when both federations were fined heavily for unsporting conduct, though the match result was not altered at the time.
Attention now turns to the legal process, with the possibility of further twists before the matter is settled.
On the pitch, Morocco are already looking ahead. After their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, they will compete in Group C at this year’s tournament alongside Brazil, Scotland and Haiti.
