South Africa (SA) has pledged full support to Senegal in its bid to reclaim the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, offering legal assistance if needed. The announcement was made by the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, following the controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Appeal Board to strip Senegal of its championship.
McKenzie emphasised that football matches are won on the field, not in boardrooms. He added that referees, not administrative officials, are responsible for decisions during games. “AFCON, we must not beat around the bush, Senegal are African champions,” McKenzie said. “We will stand by Senegal and provide top legal assistance if required. Our country has some of the best lawyers who can support them in this process.”
The decision by the CAF Appeal Board reversed Senegal’s 1-0 victory over Morocco in the Rabat final, prompting the Teranga Lions to take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. McKenzie condemned Morocco’s handling of the situation, saying SA would not allow any country to “bully African football or the other 53 CAF member associations.”
–ChannelAfrica–
