The TAS is examining an appeal by the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) against the awarding of the win to Morocco on a walkover. The hearing, held behind closed doors, began with representatives from Senegal, Morocco, and the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF). The tribunal's director general, Matthieu Reeb, stated that the hearing would follow a strict schedule and is expected to conclude by 15h, 15h30, or 16h.
The arbitration panel consists of three renowned law professors: Gérald Simon (France), Ulrich Haas (Germany), and Luigi Fumagalli (Italy). Reeb emphasized that the TAS aims to resolve the dispute as quickly as possible and deliver a decision after the hearing. The case revolves around a chaotic incident during the January 18 final, where Senegal players temporarily left the field to protest an arbitration decision.
The disputed match saw Morocco's Brahim Díaz miss a penalty, and Senegal's Pape Gueye score a decisive goal in extra time. However, the CAF's appeals committee awarded the win to Morocco on a 3-0 forfeit, citing regulations that prohibit leaving the field without the referee's permission. The FSF contested this decision, filing an appeal with the TAS.
A crucial aspect of the case is the referee's decision to allow the game to resume after the interruption. According to RMC Sport, experts argue that this decision may be central to the TAS's deliberations. The tribunal has the power to confirm the CAF's decision, overturn it, or refer the case back to the CAF's disciplinary committee.
The TAS's verdict is expected to have significant implications for both teams. If the decision is in favor of Morocco, Senegal will be stripped of their title. Conversely, if the TAS rules in Senegal's favor, they may be reinstated as champions. A third possibility is that the case may be referred back to the CAF for further review.
Matthieu Reeb indicated that a decision is unlikely to be made immediately, with the tribunal requiring "a few days or weeks" to deliberate. The outcome will be eagerly anticipated by fans and officials from both countries, as well as the wider African football community.
The final decision will bring closure to a protracted and contentious dispute. The TAS's ruling will be based on a thorough examination of the facts and the regulations governing the competition. Ultimately, the verdict will determine the rightful champion of the CAN 2025 tournament.
Key points
- The TAS hearing is examining an appeal by Senegal against the CAF's decision to award Morocco the win on a walkover.
- The arbitration panel consists of three renowned law professors from France, Germany, and Italy.
- A decision from the TAS is expected within "a few days or weeks" after the hearing.
