Former Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has strongly criticized the Confederation of African Football following its controversial decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, describing the move as damaging to the credibility of African football.
CAF’s Appeal Board overturned Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time win over Morocco in the January 18 final, ruling that a 15-minute walkout by the Senegalese players—protesting a late penalty—constituted a forfeiture. The decision awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory and the title, months after the tournament had concluded.
Reacting to the ruling, Troost-Ekong expressed concern about its wider implications, arguing that such decisions harm the progress the continent has made in recent years. He described the verdict as a major setback, insisting it sends the wrong message about fairness in the game.
“This decision is damaging to the integrity and reputation of African football. It feels like we’ve taken steps backward through our own actions,” he said.
The Nigerian defender also stressed that football results should be determined on the pitch, not in boardrooms, warning that administrative decisions of this nature risk undermining the sport’s merit-based principles.
He noted that the 2025 AFCON had been widely praised for its quality, organization, and infrastructure, serving as a strong preview ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. However, the controversy has now overshadowed those positives, shifting attention away from performances to legal disputes.
Meanwhile, the Senegalese Football Federation has confirmed plans to challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, ensuring the saga is far from over.
