Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has warned that his country could withdraw from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following the decision to strip them of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.
CAF’s Appeal Committee ruled that Senegal forfeited the final, awarding the 2025 title to Morocco, a verdict that has sparked anger among Senegalese officials.
Coach Thiaw now became the first coach to win CHAN as well the AFCON. Photo Credit: AFP
Reacting to the decision, Thiaw insisted his team had rightfully earned the trophy on the pitch and rejected any suggestion of handing it over.
“We will not return the cup and we will not hand it over to Morocco, and even the winning bonuses are our legitimate right,” he said.
Pape Thiaw ordering his players off the pitch. Photo Credit: Imago
“We worked hard for them and we won them deservedly. If they force us to do that, it will cost us our withdrawal from this continent.”
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The remarks mark a significant escalation in the dispute, with tensions growing between Senegalese football authorities and CAF over the handling of the final.
Senegal gaffer Pape thiaw. Photo Credit: AFP
The controversy centres on Senegal’s withdrawal during the match, which CAF determined breached competition regulations, resulting in forfeiture.
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The situation remains unresolved, with further legal action still a possibility as the fallout from one of the most contentious AFCON finals continues.
