Senegal’s football officials are said to be contemplating a withdrawal from future Africa Cup of Nations tournaments after losing their title, several months after the competition in Morocco.
The drama began during the final match in Morocco, when Senegal’s players walked off the pitch for over 17 minutes in protest of a last-minute penalty awarded to Morocco.
The penalty decision, which many considered contentious, led to heated exchanges and protests from the Senegalese side. The Teranga Lions’ exit from the pitch delayed the conclusion of the game, setting the stage for the contentious ruling by the CAF appeals jury.
The CAF appeals jury determined that Senegal had violated competition regulations, particularly Article 82, due to the team’s walk-off protest. In accordance with CAF’s rules, this breach led to the forfeiture of the match under Article 84, which resulted in Morocco being declared the winner. The verdict has caused a significant uproar, not only within Senegal but across the African football community.
In the aftermath of the ruling, Senegal’s football authorities, including the Federation Senegalaise de Football (FSF), have expressed strong dissatisfaction with CAF’s decision. The FSF has not ruled out the possibility of withdrawing from future AFCON tournaments, citing what they perceive as an unjust ruling. The federation’s leadership is reportedly in talks to discuss potential actions, including a formal boycott of future AFCON events.
Source: metrotvonline.com
