What was celebrated as a historic win for Senegal has now been overturned in a dramatic legal twist that has stunned fans, players and governments across the continent.

CAF president Patrice Motsepe has now broken his silence and is standing firmly behind the ruling, insisting that the decision proves African football’s judicial system is independent and not controlled by leadership.

But the damage is already done.

The ruling has ignited outrage, deepened mistrust and reopened long standing accusations about bias, manipulation and lack of transparency in African football.

Motsepe admitted that the decision has shaken confidence in CAF and exposed what he called a legacy of suspicion that still hangs over the organisation.

He pointed to the internal conflict between CAF’s own legal structures as proof that there was no interference.

The Disciplinary Board initially allowed Senegal to keep their victory while issuing sanctions.

But the Appeals Board completely overturned that outcome, ruling that Senegal forfeited the match after a 14 minute walk off during the final.

That single decision has now rewritten history.

Morocco are officially champions.

Senegal are officially stripped.

And African football is once again under intense global scrutiny.

Senegal’s Football Federation has reacted with fury, calling the ruling grossly illegal and confirming that an urgent appeal has already been filed with the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Switzerland.

The case is now heading to Lausanne where lawyers will battle to determine who the real 2025 AFCON champion is.

Motsepe says CAF will respect whatever decision comes out of CAS and insists that no country will receive special treatment.

But across Africa, many are not convinced.

For millions of fans, the question is no longer just about who won the final.

It is about whether the system itself can be trusted. For now, Morocco holds the trophy.

But the final verdict on who truly won AFCON 2025 may take months to decide. And until then, African football remains on trial.

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Lesufi refused to declare his support during his interview with former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Spokesperson Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi during his show called “Power Talk with Dr. Ndlozi” show on Power FM 98.7.

Motsepe, who has consistently denied any political ambitions, has nevertheless become a topic of speculation.

Supporters argue that his high profile and financial resources could inject new energy into the party, while critics caution that elevating a wealthy outsider risks reinforcing perceptions of elite influence disconnected from grassroots members.

Lesufi’s careful response underscores the ANC’s internal tensions, with senior figures such as Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Fikile Mbalula, and others already considered potential candidates.

Political analysts say that unresolved divisions over leadership direction, party unity, and strategy could stall momentum and intensify factional battles well before delegates convene for the 2027 conference.

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Patrice Motsepe, the billionaire owner of Mamelodi Sundowns and president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is reportedly being lobbied by senior members of the African National Congress (ANC) to run for the party’s presidency at its December 2027 conference, positioning him as a potential candidate for South Africa’s next president in 2029.

According to sources cited by Rapport and Sunday World, ANC insiders see Motsepe’s business acumen, football leadership, and humble roots as assets to rejuvenate the party’s image amid declining voter support.

Motsepe, 63, has not publicly confirmed his candidacy but is said to be open to the idea. His success in transforming Mamelodi Sundowns into a continental powerhouse and his re-election as CAF president in March 2025 have bolstered his reputation as a capable leader.

However, some skepticism exists. Joining the ANC could be a misstep for Motsepe, suggesting he could run independently given his wealth and influence.

Critics view the ANC’s interest as a sign of desperation to regain voter trust. Motsepe’s ties to President Cyril Ramaphosa, his brother-in-law, and his business empire, including African Rainbow Minerals, add complexity to his potential political bid.

While the ANC succession race heats up, with figures like Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Fikile Mbalula also in contention, Motsepe’s political ambitions remain unconfirmed. His next steps could reshape South Africa’s political landscape.

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