CAF President Patrice Motsepe has described the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as the most successful edition in the history of the tournament, praising the country’s organisation, hospitality, and world-class facilities.
Motsepe made the remarks after a CAF Executive Committee meeting in Dar es Salaam, where he expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, and the Moroccan people for delivering what he called an outstanding tournament.
He applauded the upgraded stadiums, strong infrastructure, and high level of competition displayed during the tournament, which ran from December 2025 to January 2026.
According to him, Morocco’s hosting success has also set a strong example for the next AFCON, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in 2026.
Motsepe further praised all 24 participating nations, noting that their performances helped boost the global image of African football. He gave special recognition to Senegal, who emerged champions after a hard-fought campaign.
However, the CAF president admitted he was deeply disappointed by the dramatic and controversial scenes that marred the final match.
He described the incident as “very embarrassing” and insisted such a situation must never happen again.
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The final played on January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, was tense from start to finish. Senegal had a late goal disallowed after VAR ruled a foul on Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, leading to angry protests.
Shortly after, Morocco were awarded a penalty following a challenge on Brahim Díaz, a decision that triggered Senegal’s players to briefly walk off the pitch, causing a 15-minute delay and unrest in the stadium.
After calm was restored and play resumed, Díaz missed the penalty as Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved the shot.
In extra time, Senegal sealed victory with a powerful strike from Pape Gueye, winning 1-0 to lift the AFCON trophy.
