Morocco has declared the AFCON case closed, even as Senegal continues to challenge the decision to strip them of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, according to Al Jazeera. The Atlas Lions were awarded a 3-0 victory over Senegal after several players from the West African side left the pitch in protest over a penalty decision in the January final.

Senegal’s Legal Challenge Continues

Senegal, who lost the final 1-0 on the night, still hold the AFCON trophy and have launched a legal battle against the decision to revoke their title. However, Morocco believes their appeal has resolved the matter, but the CAF ruled in favor of Morocco, citing the protest as a violation of the sport’s regulations.

Senegal’s case is currently before the CAF and may still be reviewed by the CAS, the international sports arbitration body; Despite this, Morocco has moved forward, focusing on their upcoming matches and the 2026 World Cup. Their new coach. Mohamed Ouahbi, is already preparing the team for the next phase of their journey.

The Atlas Lions drew 1-1 against Ecuador in a friendly match in Madrid on Friday, marking their first game since the controversial AFCON final, while Ouahbi, who took charge just three months before the World Cup, emphasized his team’s readiness for the global stage.

Focus on the Future

Morocco’s players and officials have largely avoided commenting on the AFCON controversy. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou told reporters that the team is focused on the future, not the past. “The answer from us would be what our federation said, and that’s all,” he said. “We’re looking forwards.”

Thousands of Morocco fans. Many wearing their national colors and carrying vuvuzelas, believe the decision was fair. Yassine el-Aouak, a 35-year-old supporter from Italy, stated, “If someone says there are regulations, you have to follow them. I think we will bring the trophy home eventually – we know that we deserve it.”

Other fans, like 22-year-old Taha El Hadiguy, echoed the sentiment. “It’s very different to winning on the night of the final, to win two months later, but a win is a win. We have one more star on our shirt.”

Morocco’s media has also shifted focus to the upcoming World Cup, with little attention given to Senegal’s potential appeal. The team’s performance against Ecuador, despite lacking sharpness in attack, was seen as a positive sign for their preparation ahead of the global tournament.

Looking Ahead to the World Cup

Morocco’s next match is against Brazil in the World Cup group stage on June 13, a highly anticipated encounter. Ouahbi, who led Moroccan youth teams to Under-20 World Cup glory last year, emphasized the strengths of his squad. “We are a top-level team – the Ecuadorian coach reminded us of that,” he said.

Ouahbi also addressed the idea of weaknesses, stating, “If you are a top-level team, ranked eighth in the world and World Cup semifinalists, you don’t have weaknesses. You only have strengths, and then any qualities we’re missing, areas where we’re not performing, we have to make up for collectively.”

While the Moroccan Federation’s legal team may face a challenge from Senegal, the players and coaching staff are focused on the World Cup. They have a chance to win another trophy, this time on the pitch, and are determined to prove themselves on the global stage.

The controversy surrounding the AFCON title remains unresolved, but Morocco is moving forward with confidence. Their focus is now on the upcoming World Cup, where they hope to make history and cement their status as one of Africa’s top teams.