The Senegal Football Federation’s secretary-general has revealed new details about the dispute surrounding the CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations, saying Morocco formally asked the Confederation of African Football to award them the title by default and to consider Senegal as having withdrawn.
In his remarks, he explained that Morocco submitted an official request to CAF after the issue that affected Senegal’s participation in the competition, insisting that the tournament rules should be applied in a way that would hand the trophy to the host nation.
He added that the Senegalese federation rejected that approach, stressing that Senegal never withdrew from the tournament and that the situation did not justify such a decision. According to him, Senegal maintained its position in communications with CAF and defended its right to remain in the competition under the same conditions as the other teams.
The official said the discussions with CAF included several exchanges, with Senegal pushing back against what it viewed as an attempt to turn an administrative matter into a sporting advantage. He underlined that Senegal’s stance was clear throughout: the team did not abandon the tournament, and any ruling should reflect that reality.
He also pointed out that CAF ultimately handled the case through its usual channels, without confirming any decision that would award the title automatically. The secretary-general described Morocco’s request as surprising, but said Senegal focused on protecting its interests and ensuring the file was treated fairly.
