The President of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, has responded firmly to growing allegations of corruption surrounding CAF’s handling of a disputed Africa Cup of Nations outcome involving Senegal and Morocco.
Speaking during a press briefing in Morocco, Motsepe rejected the claims made by Senegalese authorities, insisting that CAF operates transparently and has nothing to conceal. He said the organisation is not only open to scrutiny but also welcomes any legal process aimed at examining its decisions.
He further stated that anyone who believes there is wrongdoing is free to pursue legal action, adding that CAF would fully respect the process. According to him, the body recognises and values the legal independence of all 54 member nations and has no intention of undermining any judicial authority.
Motsepe also expressed confidence in the sporting dispute process, noting that whatever decision comes from the Court of Arbitration for Sport will be respected and implemented by CAF.
The controversy stems from CAF’s handling of the AFCON final held in Rabat, where initial results were later overturned. Senegal had originally recorded a 1 nil victory over Morocco, but the result was later changed to a 3 nil win in favour of Morocco. The decision followed an incident in which Senegal’s players, alongside coaching staff, walked off the pitch after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco and subsequently missed.
The situation has triggered strong reactions in Senegal, with authorities calling for a broader investigation into alleged irregularities within CAF. Senegal has since taken the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in an effort to challenge the ruling.
Despite the tension, Motsepe maintained that CAF remains committed to due process and will abide by whatever outcome emerges from the ongoing legal review.
