By Draxon Maloya

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has come under intense criticism after controversially stripping Senegal of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph and awarding the championship to Morocco, a move widely condemned by football icons and fans worldwide.

Global football figures have reacted sharply to CAF’s boardroom ruling, describing it as a decision that undermines the credibility of the continent’s soccer governing body. Since its formation, CAF has enjoyed respect across Africa and beyond, but critics warn that this latest action risks eroding that reputation.

Senegal had secured victory in extra time, defeating Morocco’s Atlas Lions to claim the AFCON crown. However, CAF’s secretariat proceeded to annul the result, controversially awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory.

Former Senegalese stars Patrice Gibril Cissé and El Hadji Diouf expressed disbelief, questioning how CAF intends to reclaim gold medals already awarded to Senegalese players who “deservedly won them on the pitch.”

The condemnation extended beyond Africa. Renowned global football manager José Mourinho and former England international Wayne Rooney branded CAF’s decision as “strange, shameful, and ridiculous,” warning that such actions could permanently damage the institution’s standing in world football.

As the football world awaits CAF’s official crowning of Morocco as AFCON champions, the controversy continues to spark outrage, raising serious questions about governance, fairness, and transparency in African football administration