Motsepe lands in Senegal amid AFCON controversy, calls for unity in African football

Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe arrived in Dakar, Senegal on Wednesday in a high-profile visit that comes against the backdrop of mounting tension following a controversial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) ruling.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe has arrived in Dakar, Senegal. He was welcomed by Fédération Sénégalaise de Football, Mr Abdoulaye Fall and the leadership of Senegalese football. pic.twitter.com/ud6Qx5pkGA

— CAF Media (@CAF_Media) April 8, 2026

Motsepe’s trip, which was announced at the end of March, is part of a broader diplomatic effort that will also see him visit Morocco.

The CAF boss emphasized the need for collaboration, stressing the importance of working together to grow and strengthen African football amid increasing scrutiny of the organization.

During his stay, Motsepe is scheduled to meet Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye at the presidential palace, with a joint press conference expected later in the day.

The visit follows CAF’s widely debated decision to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the AFCON final held on January 18.

In a ruling announced on March 17, CAF awarded a 3-0 win to Morocco, citing competition regulations after Senegal’s team walked off the pitch in protest.

The dramatic scenes unfolded in Rabat when Senegalese players, led by head coach Pape Thiaw, exited the field following a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco. The penalty, taken by forward Brahim Díaz, was ultimately missed but the protest proved costly.

In response, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), seeking to overturn CAF’s decision.

The ruling has triggered a strong backlash from Senegal, with government officials calling for an international investigation into alleged corruption within CAF.

The controversy has placed the organization under intense pressure, raising questions about governance and transparency in African football.

Addressing the issue recently, Motsepe maintained a neutral stance, stating that CAF would fully respect and implement the final decision from CAS, regardless of the outcome.