The African Cup of Nations 2025 legal saga has taken another dramatic turn. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has set May 7, 2026 as the final deadline for the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) to submit its defense brief in the appeal filed by Senegal. This timeline intensifies the pressure on Morocco and marks a critical milestone in a case that has gripped the entire African football community for weeks.
Morocco faces deadline to defend 2025 Africa Cup title
Recall that the CAN 2025 final descended into controversy at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18. After a scoreless draw at full-time, a disputed penalty awarded to Morocco led Senegalese players to walk off the pitch for 15 minutes. Though they returned and won in extra time through a Pape Gueye goal, the CAF Appeals Jury overturned this result on March 17. The jury declared Senegal forfeit and awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory. It is this decision that the Senegalese Football Federation has challenged before CAS since March 25, seeking to reclaim the continental crown.
The legal proceedings are now progressing through standard channels. Senegal had requested an expedited process, which Morocco rejected, forcing both sides to adhere to regular timelines. Following the submission of Morocco’s defense brief on May 7, CAF and Senegal will have the opportunity to file counter-responses. An in-person hearing at the CAS headquarters in Lausanne appears likely, where key witnesses may be called to testify. Both federations are expected to retain top international sports law firms, turning this case into a high-stakes diplomatic and legal confrontation.
The final verdict remains months away. A typical CAS case can take between six and twelve months to resolve. The identity of Africa’s true 2025 champions may therefore remain unresolved until late 2026. One thing is certain: the decision will be binding and enforceable, leaving no room for appeal. Should CAS overturn the CAF ruling, it would send shockwaves through African football governance.
