The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has formally requested that FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) overturn the result of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, citing Senegal’s mid-match walk-off as a "withdrawal from play."

This dramatic appeal follows one of the most controversial finals in the tournament's history. Play at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat was suspended for 17 minutes after the Senegalese squad left the pitch to protest a late penalty awarded to the host nation.

Despite Senegal eventually returning to secure a 1-0 victory in extra time, Morocco argues that this disruption fundamentally compromised the integrity of the match.

The flashpoint occurred during second-half stoppage time. With the game deadlocked, Morocco was awarded a penalty, provoking an intense reaction from the Senegalese bench. Under the instruction of head coach Pape Thiaw, the Teranga Lions retreated to the tunnel, leaving officials and Moroccan players stranded on the pitch.

In its formal statement, the FRMF contends that the 17-minute hiatus amounted to an official withdrawal. The federation claims that the delay destroyed the "psychological balance" of the game, which directly influenced Brahim Díaz’s subsequent penalty miss.

The Real Madrid star attempted a "Panenka" chip that was easily gathered by goalkeeper Édouard Mendy once play finally resumed.

These events have sparked a significant backlash from the sport’s governing bodies. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was observing from the VIP stands in Rabat, did not hold back, describing the walk-off as "unacceptable" and a "shameful image for African football."

He demanded that disciplinary bodies take the strongest possible action to prevent such scenes from recurring.

In response, CAF has confirmed that it has opened an investigation and will refer the evidence to its disciplinary committee. Despite the impending legal battle, the mood in Dakar remains celebratory.

Upon their return, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye gifted the squad cash bonuses and plots of land to commemorate their continental triumph.

The Senegalese Football Federation has dismissed the Moroccan appeal as post-match posturing. Although Coach Pape Thiaw has since apologised for the walk-off, labelling it an "emotional reaction in the heat of the moment," the federation expresses that it is "undeterred" and awaits CAF’s official correspondence.

Football analysts suggest that while Senegal faces heavy consequences, the likelihood of the trophy changing hands is slim. Heavy financial penalties for the Senegalese federation are almost certain, and Pape Thiaw may face a significant touchline ban from international fixtures.

However, legal experts believe an administrative reversal is unlikely, as the match was eventually completed on the field.

For now, the trophy remains in Dakar, but the final whistle in this tournament may not be blown for several months.