CAF boss Patrice Motsepe lands in Senegal to defuse AFCON 2025 title dispute

Patrice Motsepe has arrived in Senegal for a high-level visit aimed at addressing the fallout from the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations decision.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president is expected to hold a series of key meetings in Dakar, including talks with Senegal’s Head of State Bassirou Diomaye Faye and FA president Abdoulaye Fall, as efforts intensify to manage tensions between the country and the continental governing body.

Motsepe’s visit follows the CAF Appeals Committee ruling on March 17, which awarded the 2025 AFCON title to Morocco. The decision has sparked a strong reaction from Senegal, who have launched a legal challenge after being stripped of the title, leading to a growing dispute.

The discussions are expected to focus on addressing Senegal’s grievances, restoring trust in CAF’s decision-making processes, and ensuring transparency as the situation continues to draw attention across the continent.

As part of his itinerary, Motsepe will attend official engagements in Dakar, including a visit to Goree Island and a working lunch, before addressing the media at a scheduled press conference at 17:30 GMT.

The outcome of the visit could prove decisive in easing tensions and shaping the next steps in a dispute that has placed African football governance under intense scrutiny.

By Enoch Fiifi Forson