Caf president Motsepe vows Afcon final issues fixed ahead of 2027 tournament

Caf president Patrice Motsepe states the organisation has addressed the deficiencies that led to the chaotic 2025 Afcon final in Morocco.

Morocco handed Afcon title Senegal were declared winners of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Morocco 1-0 in extra time, but the Confederation of African Football later stripped them of the title following a protest. A Caf appeal board ruled in March that Morocco should be awarded the trophy instead after Senegal walked off the pitch during second-half injury time. The decision came after Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review when the game was still goalless, triggering the West African side’s protest. Stadium security clashes with fans and incidents labeled as 'towelgate'—where players and ballboys moved the goalkeeper’s towel—also marred the finale. ## Caf takes corrective actions Patrice Motsepe, Caf president, confirmed the organisation has implemented new laws and regulations to prevent a repeat of the incidents in Morocco. He stated that efforts have been made to rebuild trust in referees and VAR among the football community. Motsepe acknowledged the challenges that arose during the tournament and stressed the importance of ensuring such situations do not recur. The changes aim to strengthen the integrity of African football competitions. ## Senegal challenges ruling Despite Caf’s assurances that African football emerged stronger from the tournament, the controversial decision to strip Senegal of their title has severely damaged Caf’s reputation. Former footballer Nigel Reo-Coker criticized the ruling, calling it an 'embarrassment' and suggesting it reflected poorly on Caf and African football globally. The Senegalese Football Federation labeled the decision a 'robbery' and has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Motsepe expressed confidence in the federation’s diplomatic efforts and stated that Caf will respect any ruling from the court. ## VAR referee in spotlight Jean-Jacques Ndala, the referee who officiated the 2025 Afcon final between Morocco and Senegal, is set to take charge of the first leg of the African Champions League final. Motsepe explained that Ndala’s performance was assessed by the referees’ committee and found to meet global best practices, despite concerns raised by both Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR. The referees’ committee operates independently, and Caf does not interfere in their decisions. Motsepe emphasized the need to continue training referees to match the highest global standards. ## Afcon 2027 preparation underway Patrice Motsepe addressed concerns about delays in stadium upgrades and infrastructure for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. He highlighted the strong commitment from the leaders of all three countries and the presence of Caf representatives working on preparations daily. Motsepe assured that the tournament will be 'enormously successful' despite room for improvement in certain areas. The 2027 Afcon marks the first time the tournament will be held in three nations and the first in East Africa since 1976. ## Kenya federation under scrutiny Preparations for the 2027 Afcon in Kenya are overshadowed by a governance dispute within the Football Kenya Federation (FKF), where nine of the twelve executive committee members have demanded the resignation of FKF president Hussein Mohammed. Mohammed denied the allegations and accused his deputy, McDonald Mariga, of orchestrating a coup. Both Fifa and Caf have requested clarification on the power struggle. Motsepe expressed confidence that the issues will be resolved in compliance with Caf and Fifa regulations. ## Kenya’s football governance history Kenya previously faced sanctions from Fifa, including a nine-month ban in February 2022 after the sports ministry disbanded the FKF over allegations of fund misappropriation. The ban was later lifted, and Kenya is now working to ensure smooth preparations for the 2027 Afcon. Motsepe remains optimistic about resolving the current governance issues in a manner that aligns with statutory requirements. The country is also constructing a new 60,000-seater stadium in preparation for the tournament.