Guardiola Comments on CAF Decision

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has reacted to the CAF strips Senegal 2025 AFCON title decision, which awarded the trophy to Morocco.

CAF’s Appeal Board overturned Senegal’s 1–0 victory in the final, citing a walk-off by the Teranga Lions in protest of a stoppage-time penalty.

Details of the Controversy

The match was officially recorded as a 3–0 forfeit in favour of Morocco. CAF adjudged that Senegal’s walk-off breached Articles 82 and 84 of its regulations.

Guardiola’s Reaction

“It’s a surprise,” Guardiola said.

“I don’t have a proper opinion because I don’t know the reason why. I didn’t read, didn’t see.

“But it’s a decision made behind-the-scenes. What happens everywhere is what we see; it’s not happened, it always happens behind the scenes and you don’t see their faces. That is what is happening lately in football and all around the world in other subjects.”

Implications for African Football

The ruling has sparked discussions across African football communities.

Many observers say the incident highlights the challenges of officiating and governance in high-stakes tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations.