AFCON 2025: Ighalo Slams CAF Verdict, Says Senegal Won It On The Pitch

Former Nigeria international Odion Ighalo has criticised the Confederation of African Football’s controversial decision to strip Senegal of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, insisting it will be difficult for the Teranga Lions to surrender the trophy.

CAF recently ruled that Senegal forfeited their 1-0 final victory, awarding hosts Morocco a 3-0 win and the title instead.

Reacting in an interview with Brila FM, Ighalo described the ruling as a major setback for African football.

He acknowledged questionable officiating during the final but maintained that Senegal deserved their triumph on the pitch. The former Manchester United striker also criticised CAF for allowing the match to continue before later overturning the result.

Ighalo further argued that the decision undermines the credibility of AFCON and hands critics fresh ammunition to disparage African football. He praised Morocco’s organisation of the tournament but suggested the outcome now leaves a sour taste.

Despite CAF’s stance, he insisted Senegal would find it hard to relinquish the trophy, admitting he personally would refuse to return it under similar circumstances.