Several legendary African footballers have lashed out at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over its decision to declare Morocco as the winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The CAF Appeal Board ruled that Senegal breached Article 84 of the regulations, which prohibits staging a walk-off. As a result, Senegal were deemed to have forfeited the game, and the final result was nullified.

Applying the regulation, Morocco were declared champions with a 3-0 scoreline against Senegal as punishment for the temporary walk-off.

Some of the legends accused CAF of colluding with Moroccan officials to secure a favorable ruling, while others questioned the timing of the decision, arguing it should have been enforced during the final or shortly afterward for transparency.

Senegal responds to CAF over 2025 AFCON win nullification

Find the comment of the legends below:

Samuel Eto’o

The Cameroon Football Federation president questioned the credibility of the ruling, suggesting Senegal remains the rightful champions.

“They have given the world a reason to never take AFCON seriously. How will you lose a final and win it two months later? The whole world knows the real winners. Senegal have proof that they won the AFCON,” Eto’o said.

Didier Drogba

In a passionate statement, the legendary Côte d’Ivoire captain argued that the decision undermines African football’s reputation.

“We all watched Senegal fight bravely and defeat Morocco in a historic final. But now, months later, a decision made in a boardroom has changed that story. This isn’t just about one trophy. It’s about the credibility, dignity, and spirit of African football. Africa is not small. Africa has produced giants—players who conquered Europe and inspired millions,” he stated.

Sadio Mané

Mané, part of Senegal’s AFCON-winning team, took to Instagram to slam CAF.

“What happened has gone too far. This is not the football we fight for, not the Africa we believe in. There is too much corruption in our game, and it’s killing the passion of millions of fans across the continent. Players give everything on the pitch, but decisions off it are deciding matches and trophies. I’m deeply disappointed not just for Senegal, but for African football as a whole. We deserve better. The fans deserve fairness, transparency, and respect,” he wrote.

Ahmed Mido

Former Egyptian international Ahmed Hossam Mido launched a fierce attack on CAF:

“A real joke, the biggest scandal in the history of football. There must be a revolution in African football. All these people must go today, not tomorrow. Senegal were the better team in the final; they deserve to be champions of Africa. It’s clear, simple, and you all know it,” he said.

Asisat Oshoala

The six-time African Footballer of the Year was among the first high-profile figures to respond on X, replying to Fabrizio Romano’s post:
“In CAF’s book, not in OUR book!!!”

SB/JE

Watch as Ghanaians blast CAF over decision to strip Senegal of AFCON title