Senegal's Niakate Challenges CAF Over AFCON Trophy and Medals: "Come and Get Them!"
T.E (Elbotola)
17 March 2026at22:31
Senegal national team player, Moussa Niakate, was deeply distressed by the decision of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeals Committee, which ruled that Senegal lost to Morocco (3-0) in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
The CAF Appeals Committee issued a statement on Tuesday evening, accepting the appeal filed by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and deeming the Senegalese national team to have withdrawn from the Africa Cup of Nations final.
Niakate challenged CAF, which confirmed Senegal's withdrawal from the Africa Cup of Nations final, and regarding the return of the title and medals, he stated: "Come and get them! They are crazy!"
The CAF statement mentioned that the committee ruled Senegal as having withdrawn, after applying Article 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations regulations, thus resulting in their 3-0 defeat.
What was the CAF Appeals Committee's ruling regarding Senegal's AFCON final?
The CAF Appeals Committee ruled that Senegal lost to Morocco by a score of 3-0 in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. This decision came after accepting an appeal, deeming the Senegalese national team to have withdrawn from the match.
How did Senegal's Moussa Niakate respond to the CAF Appeals Committee's decision?
Moussa Niakate was deeply distressed by the CAF ruling and defiantly challenged the organization. Regarding the return of the title and medals, he stated, 'Come and get them! They are crazy!' expressing strong disapproval of the decision.
What are the implications of CAF's decision for Senegal's standing in the AFCON?
CAF's decision means Senegal is officially considered to have withdrawn from the final, resulting in a 3-0 defeat to Morocco. This ruling was based on the application of specific regulations, impacting their position in the tournament's history and future.
