Morocco and Senegal faced off in the final of the 2025 AFCON
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (RMFF) has formally requested an investigation into events that unfolded during the dramatic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal on Sunday, January 18, 2026, citing concerns over the temporary withdrawal of the Senegal national team after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco.
In an official statement, the RMFF confirmed that it has submitted a request to both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, in line with established legal procedures, to examine the Senegal team’s brief walk-off and the incidents that accompanied it.
The federation stated that the referee’s decision to award a penalty, following a VAR review, was “correct” and taken by the unanimous agreement of the match officials.
The controversial moment came deep into stoppage time when Brahim Díaz was fouled in the penalty area.
The referee pointed to the spot after consulting the VAR monitor, sparking furious protests from Senegal’s players and technical staff.
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In response, the Senegal team left the pitch and returned to the dressing room, temporarily halting the final before eventually resuming play.
Although Senegal later returned and the match continued, Morocco believes the interruption had a significant impact on the normal flow of the game and on the morale and concentration of its players at a decisive moment.
The penalty was eventually taken by Díaz and saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending the final into extra time, where Senegal scored the winning goal.
In the same statement, the RMFF thanked Moroccan supporters for their unwavering backing throughout the tournament and praised all stakeholders who contributed to the successful organisation of the championship.
CAF has since confirmed that it has opened investigations into the incidents surrounding the final, adding another layer of scrutiny to a match that continues to shape debate across African football.
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