Hugo Broos questions CAF consistency after Senegal stripped of AFCON title

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has criticised CAF’s handling of the AFCON 2025 final decision, raising concerns over the timing and consistency of the ruling that stripped Senegal of the title and awarded it to Morocco.

Senegal had originally secured a 1-0 extra-time victory in Rabat, but were later sanctioned after walking off the pitch during the match, leading to a successful appeal by Morocco.

Reacting to the decision, Broos admitted that the rules could support CAF’s stance but insisted the process lacked consistency.

“The only thing I can say is that CAF shows again that there is no consistency in their decisions,” he said. “It’s very painful for Senegal to lose that cup. But there is a rule. If you leave the pitch, it’s forfeit. Done.”

However, the Belgian coach questioned why CAF took two months to reach the decision.

“The only thing is why you don’t do it earlier, why you wait two months?” he asked. “You don’t even have to wait for a complaint. If it’s a rule, apply it immediately.”

Broos also pointed to previous disciplinary cases, including South Africa’s points deduction over an ineligible player, as evidence of inconsistency in how rules are enforced.

“There is also a rule when you select a player with two yellow cards. You must complain immediately and send it within 24 hours,” he said. “That didn’t happen, and six months later they deducted points. Even the rules said what had to be done.”

He stressed that uniformity in decision-making is essential for the credibility of the game.

“You have to be consistent in what you decide. Not for one situation doing this and for another doing something else,” Broos added.

While acknowledging the outcome, Broos reiterated the emotional impact on Senegal.

“It’s very painful. But now, Morocco has the cup.”

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