Morocco and Senegal are approaching a decisive moment in their legal dispute over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. Both federations are due before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, where a panel of three arbitrators will examine the circumstances surrounding the controversial end to the final and hear arguments from the two sides and CAF.
Morocco is relying on a strict interpretation of CAF’s regulations. The Moroccan side argues that Senegal should forfeit the match after leaving the pitch without the referee’s permission, which would result in a 3-0 victory for Morocco.
Senegal, meanwhile, will present its own legal arguments as it seeks to defend the result recorded on the field. The CAS proceedings therefore represent a crucial stage in a dispute that has continued long after the final whistle.
The Moroccan media remain focused on the expected verdict, with Le 360 Sport portraying the legal battle through a fable contrasting the Senegalese “Cicada” with a Moroccan “Ant” determined to follow the rulebook to the end. The symbolism reflects the confidence surrounding Morocco’s case, but the final decision now rests with the CAS panel. Initial answers could emerge this Thursday, potentially bringing an end to one of the most contentious disputes surrounding AFCON 2025.
