AFCON Ruling Backlash: Oshoala, Senegal Stars Criticise CAF Decision
The AFCON ruling backlash has intensified as Nigeria’s star forward Asisat Oshoala and several Senegal players publicly criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
CAF recently stripped Senegal of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and awarded it to Morocco. The decision has triggered widespread reactions from players, officials, and fans across the continent.
CAF Decision Sparks AFCON Ruling Backlash
The AFCON ruling backlash began after CAF’s Appeals Board overturned Senegal’s 1–0 victory over Morocco in the final held in Rabat.
CAF awarded Morocco a 3–0 win, stating that Senegal forfeited the match after walking off the pitch in protest during extra time.
Although Senegal returned to complete the match and won through a late goal from Pape Gueye, CAF ruled that the temporary walk-off violated competition rules.
The decision has since drawn heavy criticism and sparked debate across social media.
Oshoala Slams CAF Over Decision
Asisat Oshoala was one of the first high-profile figures to react to the controversy.
Responding on social media, she dismissed CAF’s ruling, saying:
“In CAF book, not in OUR book!!!”
Oshoala also questioned CAF’s relationship with Morocco. She criticised what she described as the concentration of tournaments and awards in one country.
Her comments have further fueled the AFCON ruling backlash and raised concerns about fairness in African football.
Senegal Players Mock CAF Ruling
Several Senegal players reacted strongly, using social media to express frustration and disbelief.
Midfielder Pathe Ciss shared a photo with the trophy and mocked the decision.
Mamadou Lamine Camara questioned who would collect their medals.
Defender Moussa Niakhaté insisted the victory was real, while El Hadji Malick Diouf stated that trophies are won on the pitch, not off it.
Forward Boulaye Dia also reacted, emphasizing the emotional value of the victory.
Meanwhile, Idrissa Gueye took a calmer approach, saying the team’s experience could not be taken away.
Senegal FA and Government Respond
The Senegalese Football Federation strongly condemned the ruling. Officials described it as “unfair, unprecedented and unacceptable.”
The federation confirmed plans to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The Senegalese government also reacted, calling for an independent investigation into CAF. Authorities described the decision as unjust and raised concerns about possible corruption.
Football Figures React to AFCON Ruling Backlash
Veteran coach Claude Le Roy expressed shock at the decision. He questioned how such a ruling could be made months after the final.
Meanwhile, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation accepted the decision. Officials stated that their appeal focused on enforcing competition rules.
CAF has not yet issued an official response to the growing criticism.
AFCON Credibility Under Pressure
The AFCON ruling backlash continues to grow as more players and analysts speak out.
Many believe the decision could damage the credibility of African football. Critics argue that results should be determined on the pitch, not changed weeks later.
With Senegal planning an appeal, the final outcome now depends on the Court of Arbitration for Sport.