CAF announces major AFCON reforms after the controversial 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco sparked global criticism

Confederation of African Football has announced sweeping new reforms following the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco, admitting there were major failures in refereeing and match management during the tournament decider.

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CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the organisation conducted a full review of the chaotic final and introduced fresh measures aimed at protecting the integrity and credibility of African football.

According to Motsepe, problems surrounding officiating decisions and overall match coordination contributed significantly to the confusion that overshadowed the final in Rabat.

The dramatic encounter initially ended with Senegal defeating Morocco 1-0 after extra time and being crowned champions.

However, the result was later overturned by CAF’s appeal committee after disciplinary sanctions were imposed on Senegal following protests linked to a late VAR penalty decision.

The final was also marred by security disturbances inside the stadium and allegations of unsporting conduct during the match.

Among the complaints raised were accusations that Senegal’s goalkeeper was deliberately distracted by ball boys and opposition officials during crucial moments of the game.

Motsepe said the new CAF AFCON reforms would focus heavily on improving the use of Video Assistant Referee technology, strengthening referee education programmes and tightening stadium security operations.

CAF also announced plans to introduce clearer and more transparent disciplinary procedures to avoid future disputes.

The football body stressed that African football must continue striving toward international standards of fairness, professionalism and integrity.

The fallout from the controversial final triggered widespread criticism from several figures within global football.

Former Nigel Reo-Coker said the incident damaged the image of African football internationally and raised concerns about tournament governance.

Senegal’s football authorities strongly condemned the decision to strip the country of the title, describing the ruling as “robbery” and unfair treatment.

The dispute has now been taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which is expected to deliver a final ruling on the matter.

CAF has stated that it will respect and implement whatever decision is eventually reached by CAS.

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The governing body said the reforms are intended to ensure that a similarly chaotic and divisive AFCON final never happens again.