The president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, arrived in Dakar on Wednesday, nearly a month after the body’s controversial decision to strip Senegal of its AFCON title and award it to Morocco.
Motsepe had earlier announced plans to visit both countries, stressing the need for unity and collaboration to advance African football amid mounting criticism of CAF’s decision.
During his visit, Motsepe is scheduled to meet with Senegal’s president, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, at the presidential palace, followed by a press conference.
The visit comes at a tense moment after CAF overturned Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final played on January 18. On March 17, CAF awarded Morocco a 3-0 win, citing regulations related to abandoning the match.
The controversy stems from events in Rabat, where Senegalese players, along with head coach Pape Thiaw and his staff, walked off the pitch after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty. The penalty, taken by Brahim Diaz, was ultimately missed, but the match did not resume.
The Senegalese Football Federation has since appealed CAF’s ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
The decision has triggered strong reactions in Senegal, with the government calling for an international investigation into alleged corruption within CAF.
Speaking on the issue last month, Motsepe stated he would abide by the outcome of the CAS ruling, saying, “I will respect and implement the CAS decision. My personal opinion regarding the matter is irrelevant.”
What you should know
CAF president Patrice Motsepe visited Senegal amid backlash over the decision to strip the country of its AFCON title and award it to Morocco.
The case is now before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, with tensions high as Senegal challenges the ruling.
