In an official statement, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) welcomed the CAF Appeal Board’s decision in favor of Morocco, viewing it as a reaffirmation of respect for the rules and the credibility of African competitions.
A day after the verdict delivered by the Appeal Board of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the FRMF issued an official response. The governing body expressed satisfaction with a decision "that goes in the direction of respecting the rules and ensuring the stability necessary for the proper conduct of international competitions,” framing its position within an institutional and legal perspective.
The FRMF recalled that, from the very first incidents that led to the interruption of the AFCON Morocco 2025 final, its stance had remained unchanged. It consistently called for the strict application of the regulations, without ever challenging the sporting aspect of the match. "The approach taken was never intended to contest the sporting performance,” the Federation emphasized, but solely to ensure that rules known and applicable to all were upheld.
This position was ultimately validated by the Appeal Board’s ruling. After being seized following an initial contested decision, the body acknowledged that the regulations had not been respected, overturning the original decision of the Disciplinary Committee. Under Articles 82 and 84, Senegal was declared to have forfeited the match, resulting in a 3–0 victory for Morocco under unprecedented circumstances for a continental final.
Beyond the sporting outcome, the FRMF stressed the structural significance of the decision. It sees it as a clarification of the applicable legal framework, one that strengthens both the consistency and credibility of African competitions. The Federation highlighted a fundamental principle: equal treatment before the rules, an essential condition for the integrity of the game.
At the same time, the Appeal Board reviewed several sanctions related to incidents that occurred during the match. The case of Moroccan player Ismaël Saibari was partially reassessed, with his suspension reduced to two matches, one of which is suspended, and the cancellation of the initial fine. A decision reflecting a balanced approach in evaluating the facts.
On the organizational front, the FRMF was held responsible for the behavior of ball boys, with a reduced fine of $50,000. However, the appeal concerning interference around the VAR area was rejected, maintaining a $100,000 fine. The laser incident also resulted in a reduced penalty.
The Federation emphasized that it had fully complied with all procedures throughout the process, submitting its arguments and participating in hearings. It reaffirmed its commitment to continue advocating for the strict and fair application of regulations before continental and international bodies.
Looking ahead to upcoming competitions, notably the World Cup and the Women’s AFCON, the FRMF also paid tribute to all the teams that took part in this 35th edition, describing it as "a major moment for African football.”
This title, unusual in its circumstances, is part of a broader upward trajectory of Moroccan football. It reflects not only sporting achievement but also the ability to assert rights within the framework of the rules—ultimately marking a victory of law in service of the game.