CAF president visits Dakar amid CAN 2025 controversy
Nearly a month after the African Football Confederation (CAF) controversially stripped Senegal of its CAN 2025 title in favor of Morocco, CAF President Patrice Motsepe arrived in Dakar for a high-stakes visit. The decision, which sparked widespread outrage in Senegal, has left the football community divided and fueled calls for transparency.
Motsepe’s agenda in Senegal
Patrice Motsepe, who announced his visit in late March, is expected to engage with Senegalese football officials and government representatives during his stay. According to a CAF statement, his itinerary includes a symbolic visit to Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its historical significance, before meeting with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. A press conference is scheduled for 5:30 PM local time (GMT) at a Dakar hotel.
Motsepe’s arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport was marked by his reception from Abdoulaye Fall, President of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF). His visit follows assurances from the CAF leadership about their commitment to developing African football, despite mounting criticism.
Senegal’s legal challenge and government response
The CAF’s decision to award Morocco the title on forfeit after Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time win on the field has been met with fierce backlash. The Senegalese government demanded an international investigation into alleged corruption within CAF’s disciplinary bodies, calling the outcome an “affair of state.”
Senegal has since filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking to overturn the decision. The CAF justified its ruling based on Articles 82 and 84 of the competition’s regulations, though the lack of clarity has only deepened the controversy.
In a chaotic final in Rabat, Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch after a contentious penalty decision in added time, which was ultimately missed by Morocco’s Brahim Diaz. The match, marred by disputed refereeing calls, ended in Senegal’s favor before the CAF’s decision to reverse the result.
The CAF has repeatedly denied any preferential treatment, emphasizing the independence of its disciplinary processes. However, the decision has strained relations between the two nations and raised questions about the integrity of African football governance.
What’s next for CAN 2025?
The CAS appeal remains pending, with no timeline for a verdict. Meanwhile, Motsepe’s visit aims to ease tensions and reaffirm the CAF’s commitment to unity and development in African football. The outcome of his meetings in Dakar could shape the future of the sport on the continent.
