Ruling overturns Senegal’s title at Africa Cup of Nations and declares Morocco the champion

CAIRO (AP) — Morocco was awarded the Africa Cup of Nations title Tuesday by appeal judges who overturned Senegal’s victory in a chaotic final in January.

The Confederation of African Football said its appeal committee had ruled that Senegal was “forfeited from the final” and that its 1-0 victory in extra time became a 3-0 default victory for host country Morocco.

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During the January 18 final in Rabat, Senegal left the field in protest during 15-minute stoppages in play, and fans attempted to storm the field when Morocco was awarded a penalty.

When play resumed, Moroccan striker Brahim Diaz’s penalty was saved and Senegal scored the only goal of extra time.

In an initial disciplinary hearing, CAF imposed fines and bans of more than $1 million on players and officials from Senegal and Morocco, but did not change the outcome.

The case could be subject to a further appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

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AP Football: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer