Walid Regragui, Morocco's former national team coach, has broken his silence on the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, expressing deep regret over the incident that overshadowed his side's eventual title. The match between Morocco and Senegal descended into unprecedented chaos when Senegalese players protested a late penalty decision, walked off the pitch, and only returned to complete the fixture—ultimately scoring in extra time. The Confederation of African Football ruled Senegal had withdrawn, awarding the trophy to Morocco, but the decision now faces legal challenge at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
A Continent's Image at Stake
Speaking to Canal+, Regragui acknowledged the damage inflicted by the final's dramatic conclusion. "What is unfortunate is the delay in its issuance and the delay in handling it administratively," he said, referring to CAF's decision-making process. He emphasized that while players dream of lifting the continental trophy before their home fans, that moment never materialized due to what he called "an exceptional incident, unprecedented in a continental or global final."
The former coach highlighted a troubling irony: the very behavior that marred the AFCON final reinforced stereotypes about African football on the global stage. "We saw things that have no place on the pitch, from both sides," Regragui stated, addressing misconduct from multiple parties involved in the controversy. His criticism extended to Senegal's coaching staff, whom he blamed for the unsporting conduct that ultimately tarnished the prestige of Africa's premier tournament.
Representation and Reputation
Regragui drew a broader connection between the final's chaos and longstanding perceptions of African football internationally. "I said this in 2022: a continent that is underestimated, because at the European and global level, there is negative behaviour towards African football, and on that night, we proved the point of those who criticise us," he reflected. This admission underscores the weight of continental pride—Morocco's ability to host and win the AFCON carried symbolic importance beyond sport, yet the manner in which victory was secured contradicted that vision.
Despite his frustration, Regragui acknowledged moving forward with acceptance. "The following day, I got over it," he noted, signaling a pragmatic stance toward CAF's interim decision. The unresolved legal dispute and ongoing court proceedings mean the 2025 African Cup of Nations remains defined by administrative turmoil rather than sporting excellence, leaving both nations and continental football awaiting CAS's final ruling on which team deserves the trophy.
