The President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, arrived in Dakar on Wednesday in a high-stakes visit following the controversial decision to strip Senegal of its Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.
Motsepe’s trip comes nearly a month after CAF overturned Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the January 18 final, awarding the title instead to the host nation. The decision has sparked widespread backlash across Senegal and beyond.
During his visit, Motsepe is scheduled to meet with Senegal’s President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, at the presidential palace, with a joint press conference expected afterward.
The CAF president had earlier stated that his visits to both Senegal and Morocco aim to promote unity and reinforce collaboration in advancing African football.
The controversy stems from events during the AFCON final in Rabat, where Senegal’s players, along with head coach Pape Thiaw and his technical crew, walked off the pitch in protest after Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty.
Related News:
Samson Adamu Becomes CAF General Secretary, Vows Professionalism
CAF President condemns Super Eagles inhuman treatment by Libya
CAF Appoints Nigeria’s Samson Adamu as Acting Secretary General
CAF Appoints Daniel Laryea to Officiate Nigeria vs Morocco AFCON Semi-Final
Although Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz missed the penalty, CAF later ruled the match in Morocco’s favour, citing violations related to Senegal’s actions.
Following the ruling, the Senegalese Football Federation filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, seeking to overturn CAF’s decision.
The development has further escalated tensions, with the Senegalese government calling for an independent international investigation into alleged corruption within CAF.
Addressing the issue previously, Motsepe maintained a neutral stance, emphasizing that CAF would abide by the final ruling of CAS.
About the Author
