A dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal has spilled beyond the pitch and into the courtroom, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) now set to determine who will ultimately be crowned continental champions.
The decider, staged in front of 66,000 fans at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, had been building toward a historic night for the hosts as they sought a first Afcon crown since 1976. Instead, the match descended into controversy during a chaotic stoppage-time period.
With the score level at 0-0, Senegal believed Ismaila Sarr had netted a late winner, only for referee Jean Jacques Ndala to reveal he had already stopped play for a Moroccan free-kick. Matters escalated further in the 98th minute when, following a VAR check, Ndala pointed to the spot for Morocco. Furious scenes followed both on the touchline and among supporters, with Senegal coach Pape Thiaw walking several players and staff down the tunnel as security struggled to contain disorder in the stands.
The match eventually continued, and in extra time Morocco squandered the chance to end their five-decade title drought when Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz attempted a Panenka penalty that was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Senegal then struck in the 124th minute through Pape Gueye, securing what appeared to be a 1-0 victory and a second Afcon crown for the Teranga Lions.
However, the celebrations proved premature. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FMRF) swiftly filed a complaint with the Confederation of African Football (Caf), citing Article 82 of competition regulations, which states that any team leaving the field before the match's conclusion without the referee's permission shall be deemed to have forfeited and be eliminated. In March, Caf's appeals board sided with Morocco, retroactively awarding them a 3-0 win and the title.
Senegal's federation (FSF) condemned the decision as