The controversy stems from the January final, where Senegal initially defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time. During that match, Senegalese players briefly walked off the pitch in protest after Morocco were awarded a contentious penalty, though they later returned to complete the game.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board later ruled that Senegal's walk-off breached tournament regulations—specifically Articles 82 and 84, which state that leaving the field without referee permission may constitute forfeiting the match.
Following an appeal by Morocco's football federation, CAF controversially overturned the original result, awarding Morocco a 3-0 win. The move has sparked intense debate across African football circles, raising questions about fairness, governance, and the integrity of competition.
Many observers note the ruling appears to conflict with IFAB laws, which maintain that a referee's decision on match results is final.
"When I first heard the news that the result of this year's AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco had been overturned, I thought it was a joke," Troost-Ekong told The Athletic.
"When I realised it was actually real, after reading the official statement from the Confederation of African Football, it just made me feel quite sad.
"Every African player wants to win this tournament but would I celebrate now if I was in Morocco's shoes? Absolutely not. I would feel ashamed to win like this. It wouldn't feel right. You have to earn it on the pitch.
"I don't think I would be able to accept it, but if you publicly decline a medal or trophy then that also becomes a circus. It definitely can't be celebrated."
Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui has been passed fit and will report for international duty with Morocco national team after recovering from illness, providing a timely boost ahead of their upcoming friendlies.
Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye has revealed that his high-profile move to West Bromwich Albion in 2014 may have played a decisive role in his omission from Nigeria's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gueye has taken a defiant yet conciliatory stance following the controversial reversal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, insisting his team earned the title on merit.
Hugo Broos has delivered a blunt message to his squad ahead of South Africa's crucial preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup: rediscover the identity of Bafana Bafana or risk falling short on the global stage.
