By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Morocco were declared champions of the 2026 AFCON final after CAF overturned Senegal’s 1-0 win, following a chaotic match at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat in January, involving referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, a disputed penalty decision, player protests, and crowd unrest that led to Senegal forfeiting the game.
CAF Overturns Result, Awards Morocco Victory
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) stripped Senegal of their AFCON title after reviewing the incidents.
CAF ruled that Senegal forfeited the match due to their players’ protest and temporary walk-off. As a result, officials awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory.
CAF clarified that the decision followed competition regulations, not team performance.
Controversial Penalty Sparks Chaos
The drama began late in normal time. Referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after a VAR review.
The decision followed a challenge by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Brahim Diaz.
Senegal players strongly disagreed. They walked off the pitch in protest, causing a delay of nearly 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, Moroccan players and officials urged the referee to confirm the decision.
Missed Penalty Changes Momentum
After play resumed, Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the decisive penalty.
However, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved the weak chipped attempt.
The long delay appeared to affect Diaz’s focus.
As a result, momentum quickly shifted in Senegal’s favour.
Senegal Score Winner in Extra Time
Shortly after the missed penalty, Senegal pushed forward with renewed energy.
Pape Gueye scored in the fourth minute of extra time.
That goal stunned the home crowd and appeared to secure Senegal’s victory.
Earlier Disallowed Goal Adds to Tension
Tensions had already risen before the penalty incident.
Senegal thought they had scored in stoppage time. Abdoulaye Seck’s header hit the post, and Ismaila Sarr converted the rebound.
However, the referee disallowed the goal for a foul.
This decision further frustrated Senegal players and fans.
Crowd Trouble and Security Response
The situation escalated in the stands.
Some Senegal supporters threw objects and attempted to invade the pitch.
Security personnel quickly formed a barrier and restored order.
Despite the tension, officials completed the match.
FRMF Responds to Decision
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation stated that their actions aimed to ensure rule compliance.
They emphasized respect for all teams while defending their request for proper application of regulations.
Final Outcome
Although Senegal initially celebrated a 1-0 win, CAF’s ruling changed the outcome.
Morocco now stand as AFCON 2026 champions, while the match remains one of the most controversial finals in tournament history.
