Edouard Mendy Slams CAF Over AFCON Final Crisis

G. E (Elbotola)

30 March 2026at20:30

Al-Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy strongly criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Monday, March 30, over its handling of the crisis surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. Speaking at a press conference ahead of a friendly match against Gambia, Mendy expressed his disapproval of the Appeals Committee's decision to rule Senegal as having forfeited their match against Morocco. This development comes two weeks after the Teranga Lions seemingly secured the title on the field with a 1-0 victory in the final.

The Senegalese goalkeeper asserted that such inconsistencies undermine the prestige of continental competitions. Edouard Mendy stated: "Unfortunately, I believe it has become common in our continent for the Confederation of African Football not to live up to expectations." Comparing Africa to other continents, he explained that events occurring in Africa are unimaginable in other confederations, which prevents the tournament from gaining the respect enjoyed by the European Championship or Copa América, due to the absence of strong structures capable of protecting the competition's standing.

Regarding legal proceedings, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to challenge the decision of the deemed loss and to attempt to reclaim the title. CAF President Patrice Motsepe has announced his full commitment to the outcomes of future international arbitration. The African sporting landscape now awaits the final decision that will determine the true champion of the continental trophy.

Q&A

What is the crisis surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final?

The crisis surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final involves CAF's Appeals Committee ruling that Senegal forfeited their match against Morocco. This decision came despite the Teranga Lions seemingly securing a 1-0 victory on the field, leading to strong criticism from players like Edouard Mendy.

How does Edouard Mendy view CAF's handling of the AFCON final crisis?

Edouard Mendy views CAF's handling of the AFCON final crisis as undermining the prestige of continental competitions. He believes such inconsistencies prevent the tournament from gaining the respect enjoyed by other confederations' events, due to a lack of strong protective structures.

What are the next steps in resolving the AFCON final dispute?

The next steps in resolving the AFCON final dispute involve the Senegalese Football Federation appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). CAF President Patrice Motsepe has committed to accepting the outcomes of this international arbitration, with the African sporting landscape awaiting the final decision.

Al Ahly FC

Senegal

Morocco