The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco will go down in history as the most controversial. The tournament was primed to become arguably the best in history until the final in Rabat, which witnessed some anomalies. As Morocco and Senegal continue lay to claim to the title, Yankee Scores reports the battle is far from over. 

 “Champions on the Pitch”

Senegal staged a walkout in the 98th minute for about 20 minutes. The Teranga Lions had believed the referee’s late penalty awarded to the hosts; Morocco was an unfair call. Though Diaz eventually lost the Panenka penalty after resumption. Despite these unusual scenes, Senegal was declared the winner and handed the trophy after the game after scoring in the extra time thanks to Papa Gueye’s solo goal.

 “Champions by Regulation”

The CAF disciplinary board met and stripped Senegal of the title on 17th March 2026 due to the walk-off incident and declared Morocco Champions. However, Senegal have not yet returned the trophy or the prize money. They await the decision from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The irony is that while Senegal still believe they are the worthy winners, Morocco has assumed the role of Africa champions.

The “Insignia” Battle

Yankee Scores gathered that the Moroccan national team wants their jersey inscribed with insignia indicating their status as African champions.

In the same vein, the Teranga Lions wanted the same insignia on their World Cup jerseys as a hallmark of champions.

This issue has continued to divide opinions. Since the case is still in court, many believe Morocco should not yet lay full claim to the title pending the CAS ruling. But the CAF ruling has named the Atlas Lions champions, and that should be binding.

Mixed reactions have continued to trail this dual claim. Except for CAS rules in a few days’ time, FIFA may have to step in and provide some clarity on the conflicting claims regarding the championship status of the Atlas Lions and the implications of the CAF ruling.