Motsepe Backs Disciplinary And Appeal Committee, Vows To Respect CAS Decision to

Motsepe Backs Disciplinary And Appeal Committee, Vows To Respect CAS Decision

Sampson Adedeji

The president of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, has thrown his support behind the body’s Disciplinary and Appeals Committees following their contrasting rulings on the controversial Africa Cup of Nations final involving Morocco and Senegal, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

CAF’s Appeals Committee on Tuesday overturned the earlier decision of the Disciplinary Committee and awarded the 2025 AFCON final to Morocco, a ruling that has further intensified debate across the continent.

Reacting to the development, Motsepe expressed disappointment over the events surrounding the final but reaffirmed confidence in CAF’s judicial structures.

“I have been informed of the CAF Appeals Committee's decision regarding the appeal submitted by Morocco concerning the Africa Cup of Nations final. I have already expressed my deep disappointment regarding the events that occurred during that final match,” Motsepe said.

He noted that the incident undermines years of effort by CAF to strengthen integrity, ethics, and credibility in African football.

“The important point is that what happened in that match undermines the good work that CAF has done for many years to ensure integrity, respect, ethics, good governance, and the credibility of our match results,” he added.

Motsepe also highlighted ongoing concerns about trust and transparency within African football administration, describing them as “legacy issues” the current leadership continues to address.

“When I became president, one of my main concerns was the impartiality, independence, and respect for referees and match officials. Much good work has been done, but there is still persistent doubt because it is a long-standing issue,” he explained.

The CAF boss further defended the independence of the organization’s judicial bodies, noting that their composition reflects a diverse selection of respected legal professionals from across the continent.

“It is very important to us that the decisions of the Disciplinary Committee and the Appeals Committee are viewed with respect and impartiality. If you look at the composition of these bodies, you will find that they reflect some of the most respected lawyers and judges on the continent,” Motsepe stated.

He pointed to the differing verdicts of both committees as evidence of their operational independence.

“The Disciplinary Committee made one decision, while the Appeals Committee took a completely different position,” he said.

With reports indicating that Senegal may escalate the matter, Motsepe confirmed that CAF will respect any outcome reached by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

“I have been told that Senegal will appeal, which is very important. 

Every one of the 54 African nations has the right to pursue its appeals, not only within CAF but also at the highest body, the Court of Arbitration for Sport. We will abide by and respect the decision that will be made,” he affirmed.

Motsepe concluded by stressing CAF’s commitment to fairness and equality among its member nations.

“No country in Africa will be treated preferentially or given any advantage.

" We take what happened in the Morocco final very seriously and have already begun taking steps to address the shortcomings identified,” he said.

He added that restoring public confidence remains a priority, emphasizing the need for fans across the continent to view CAF’s decisions, referees, and match officials as fair, impartial, and unbiased.