Faisal Salisu DambattaThe 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has been hailed as the most successful edition of the tournament in history, CAF President Patrice Motsepe has said, even as he expressed disappointment over the controversial ending of the final match.
Speaking after a CAF Executive Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam, Motsepe extended profound gratitude to Morocco’s King Mohammed VI, the government, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, and the Moroccan people for hosting the tournament with exceptional hospitality.
“Our deep gratitude to the people of Morocco, their government, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation for hosting the most successful AFCON in the history of this competition.
“Thank you for the infrastructure, the stadiums, and the love that was shown by the people of Morocco to all our football lovers from all over the world,” Motsepe said.
The tournament which was held between December 2025 and January 2026 was praised for its smooth organisation, upgraded stadiums, and the high level of competitiveness displayed by all participating teams.
Motsepe noted that the successful hosting in Morocco sets a strong precedent for the next AFCON, scheduled to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in 2026.
“The success of AFCON in Morocco is a wonderful foundation on which to build and provides huge inspiration for AFCON next year in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda,” Motsepe said.
Motsepe also singled out the 24 nations for their performances, praising their contribution to showcasing African football on a global stage.
Special commendation was given to Senegal for emerging as champions, reflecting the growth and competitiveness of African football across the continent.
Despite the overall praise, Motsepe did not shy away from addressing the negative aspects of the tournament.
“I was extremely disappointed with what took place at the final. Very embarrassing. That should never happen again. It will never happen again. It’s a blemish on the outstanding AFCON we had,” he said.
The final on January 18, 2026, at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat was full of drama. Morocco and Senegal were locked at 0-0 through regular time, but chaos erupted in stoppage time.
Senegal’s late goal by Ismaila Sarr was ruled out after a VAR review for a foul on Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, sparking protests from the Senegalese players.
Moments later, a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco after a challenge on Brahim Díaz, prompting Senegal’s team, led by coach Pape Thiaw, to briefly walk off the pitch. Play was stopped for about 15 minutes amid scuffles on the field and unrest among some Senegalese fans.
After interventions, including from captain Sadio Mané, the match resumed. Díaz’s penalty was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. In extra time, Senegal struck gold as Pape Gueye scored a powerful goal to secure a 1-0 win and the championship.
