BULAWAYO, Mar. 23 (NewsDay Live) – Nkayi MP Jabulani Hadebe has condemned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over its decision to award the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title to Morocco, describing it as a blow to the integrity of African football.
Hadebe, who also sits on the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Recreation, Arts and Culture, told Southern Eye that the ruling was “a travesty of justice”.
The controversy follows CAF’s decision to strip Senegal of their AFCON title, overturning their 1–0 victory over Morocco and instead awarding the championship to Morocco via a 3–0 administrative ruling.
The decision reportedly stems from Senegal’s temporary walkout during the final, which has since prompted an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Hadebe, who travelled to Morocco to attend the tournament, said the move was disproportionate and unjust.
“The match was played and Senegal emerged victorious after extra time,” he said. “To now declare Morocco the winner by default is an insult to the spirit of fair play.”
He argued that, under the rules of the game, the referee’s decision is final.
“The referee blew the final whistle and Senegal were declared winners. There is no disputing that. The referee is the sole authority on the field, and once the match is ended, the result stands,” Hadebe said.
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He expressed solidarity with Senegal and called for the decision to be reviewed.
“We stand with the people of Senegal and urge CAF to reconsider this decision. The Senegalese Football Association must pursue justice at the Court of Arbitration for Sport,” he said.
Hadebe added that the ruling raises serious questions about CAF’s credibility and commitment to fairness.
“We demand justice for Senegal and a fair resolution to this matter. CAF must prioritise the integrity of the game over politics and controversy,” he said.
