Koulibaly reacts to CAF verdict – ‘AFCON trophy is going nowhere’

Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly has maintained the West African nation will not be in a position to relinquish the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title they won in Morocco.

The 34-year-old, who plays as a centre-back for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, was reacting to a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to annul their final 1-0 win against Morocco in Rabat.

 

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In a statement, the African body cited articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations Regulations, the authorities determined the conduct of the Senegal national team warranted a severe penalty.

The final in Rabat was stopped for over 15 minutes as Senegal players protested the decision to award Morocco a penalty with only a few seconds remaining to the final whistle.

After Senegal rescinded their boycott and resumed play, Brahim Diaz missed from the penalty spot taking the final into extra time. Senegal seized the opportunity to score from Pape Gueye and win their second AFCON title in history.

‘All of Africa is celebrating’

“Respect the champions, it’s not given, it’s earned. They can watch; I’ll keep it,” Koulibaly wrote on his social media pages.

“The trophy is here… and it’s not going anywhere. This goes beyond one country… all of Africa is celebrating. Thank you for your understanding…”

French coach Didier Deschamps has also joined the fray to condemn CAF for their latest action and admitting he was shocked by the decision.

“It’s surprising because it comes two months later,” said the French coach, visibly astonished by the timing of the announcement. “I’m not going to say any more.”

Senegal set to contest ruling

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has made it clear the West African nation have the right to escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

“I have been informed Senegal is considering an appeal, which is very important. Each of the 54 African nations has the right to pursue all necessary legal avenues to defend its interests, not only at the highest level in Africa, within CAF, but also before the highest court, the Court of Arbitration for Sport,” Motsepe told a press conference.

Senegal have already taken the decision to contest the ruling.