The Royal Moroccan Football Federation has expressed strong confidence in its readiness to host a successful Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), despite the lingering controversy surrounding the 2025 AFCON final.
The development follows a disputed decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which awarded the AFCON 2025 title to Morocco after stripping Senegal of victory.
Senegal had originally secured a 1-0 win after extra time in the final played on January 18. However, the outcome was overturned after Senegalese players staged a 17-minute walk-off in protest against a late penalty awarded to the hosts.
CAF’s Appeals Committee, referencing Article 82 of its regulations, ruled that any team leaving the pitch without the referee’s consent automatically forfeits the match. As a result, the game was officially recorded as a 3-0 win for Morocco, ending the country’s 50-year wait for an AFCON title.
Senegal has rejected the ruling and confirmed plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
In its statement on Wednesday, the Moroccan FA maintained that its stance was not about disputing the final on sporting grounds but about ensuring adherence to established rules and preserving the integrity of the competition.
“Following the initial decision, which the FRMF appealed, CAF has acknowledged that the rules, known to all and applicable to all, had not been respected.
“The FRMF has complied with the correct procedures governing the resolution of disputes, including submitting its arguments and taking part in the hearings to which it was invited.
“This decision helps to clarify the framework applicable to similar situations in the future and contributes to the consistency and credibility of international competitions, particularly African football.
“The FRMF will continue to advocate with continental and international bodies for the fair application of the rules governing the competitions it participates in. It now intends to turn its attention towards upcoming sporting events, in particular the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the Women’s AFCON this summer.
“The Federation wishes to commend all the nations that took part in this edition of AFCON.”
Meanwhile, CAF has rescheduled the 2026 WAFCON tournament, which will now take place from July 25 to August 16, with Morocco retaining hosting rights.
What you should know
The AFCON 2025 controversy has raised serious questions about officiating, disciplinary rules, and fairness in African football.
While Morocco now shifts focus to hosting WAFCON 2026, Senegal’s planned appeal at CAS could still impact the narrative around the final.
Hosting a successful WAFCON will be crucial for Morocco to reinforce its reputation as a reliable football host, especially as the country continues to position itself as a major hub for international tournaments in Africa.
