Nigel Reo-Coker has strongly criticised the Confederation of African Football over its handling of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, describing the situation as damaging to the image of African football.
The former West Ham United midfielder expressed disappointment after CAF’s Appeal Committee awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory following Senegal’s decision to walk off the pitch, a ruling that has sparked widespread debate across the football world.
Speaking during an interview, Reo-Coker indicated that the controversy has reinforced negative perceptions that have long surrounded African football, particularly among some figures in Europe.
He explained that critics have often questioned the credibility of the tournament, and added that the latest developments would only give them more reason to doubt the competition’s standards.
Reo-Coker further stressed that the manner in which the final was decided undermines the spirit of the game, noting that players would prefer to win matches through fair competition on the field rather than through administrative decisions.
According to him, such outcomes affect not only the reputation of the tournament but also the pride of the players involved.
The incident has since triggered fresh calls from stakeholders for stronger leadership, better match management, and improved accountability within African football’s governing body.
With the Africa Cup of Nations regarded as the continent’s biggest football competition, many believe this controversy presents a crucial moment for authorities to take decisive action to protect its credibility and global standing.
