CAF president Patrice Motsepe condemns chaotic AFCON 2025 final in Morocco

President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has strongly condemned the disorder that marred the recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nation tournament in Morocco.

The continental showpiece final, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium saw the Taranga Lions walked-off the pitch for 17 minutes in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco in the final.

But Senegal returned for the continuation of the final after Sadio Mane’s intervention, where the Taranga Lions emerged as the champions after extra-time. Midfielder Pape Gueye emerged as the hero after netting a solo to inspire Senegal to victory after Brahim Diaz missed the penalty that had triggered the protest.

However, Motsepe, who is the leader of Africa football has expressed his disappointment following a chaotic AFCON final, while assuring the world of a smooth operations of future tournament.

“I was extremely disappointed with what happened at the AFCON final in Morocco. That should not happen again and it will not happen again. It was a blemish on a beautiful final we had” he said at CAF’s press briefing in Tanzania.

Motsepe assured fans and stakeholders that CAF would conduct a thorough investigation to identify the causes of the disruption and hold accountable those responsible. “We owe it to the players, the fans, and the continent to ensure that such incidents never happen again. CAF will take decisive action to protect the prestige of African football,” he added.

The president also called on host nations and local organizers to improve their planning, security measures, and crowd management for future tournaments. He emphasized that AFCON should remain a showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and unity for the continent.

Meanwhile, detailed reports from match officials, security personnel, and organizers are being reviewed CAF to implement lessons for upcoming events, including AFCON 2027, which is set to take place in East Africa.

Besides, CAF would work tirelessly to restore confidence among fans and participants, ensuring that African football tournaments are safe, orderly, and celebrated for the right reasons.

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