Marcelino García Toral has launched a strong criticism of the Confederation of African Football following its controversial decision to strip Senegal national football team of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and award it to Morocco national football team.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, the Villarreal coach dismissed the administrative ruling, insisting that football outcomes should be decided solely on the pitch rather than in boardrooms.
The controversy stems from the AFCON final played on January 18, 2026, where Senegal initially secured a 1-0 victory through an extra-time goal by Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye. However, the match was marred by a 17-minute walk-off by Senegal players in protest of a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
Although the squad eventually returned to complete the game, CAF’s Disciplinary Board ruled on March 17 that the incident constituted a technical forfeit. As a result, the original outcome was overturned, and Morocco was officially declared champions.
“In the offices, they take your title away just to give it to someone else,” Marcelino said, expressing his dissatisfaction with the decision. “For me, Senegal is the African champion. The winner should be decided on the pitch—that’s all that matters.”
His comments also reflect support for Gueye, who returned to Spain after the tournament as a national hero following his decisive performance. Villarreal recently honoured the midfielder at the Estadio de la Cerámica, celebrating his contribution to Senegal’s initial triumph.
Meanwhile, the fallout from the ruling continues to grow. The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football has reportedly refused to return both the $10 million prize money and the physical trophy, maintaining its stance that the original result should stand. The federation has also confirmed plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
