VAR controversy, walk-off protest push CAF Into emergency reforms

CAF has introduced new rules after a controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Morocco.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the organization admitted there were problems in how the match was handled, especially with refereeing and match management.

He said these issues caused the confusion and controversy during the final.

In the final match in Rabat, Senegal originally beat Morocco 1–0 after extra time and were declared champions. However, the result was later overturned by CAF’s appeal committee.

Morocco was then awarded the title after disciplinary actions were taken against Senegal, following a protest during the match over a late VAR penalty decision.

The match also had serious problems, including security clashes in the stadium and accusations of unfair behavior, such as claims that Senegal’s goalkeeper was distracted by ball boys and opposing team officials.

Motsepe said CAF has completed a full review of what happened and has now introduced new rules to prevent similar issues in the future.

The reforms focus on improving VAR use, better referee training, stronger security planning, and clearer disciplinary procedures.

CAF also said it wants African football to be judged by high standards of fairness and integrity.

The situation has caused criticism from some football figures. Former England international Nigel Reo-Coker said the incident made African football look bad internationally.

Senegal’s football authorities called the decision to strip them of the title unfair and described it as “robbery.”

They have taken the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which will make the final decision. CAF has said it will accept whatever ruling CAS gives.

CAF says the new changes are meant to ensure such a chaotic final does not happen again.