CAN 2025: CAF refutes any manipulation in favor of Morocco

Accused of having favored the host country during the tournament, the Confederation of African Football brushed aside any conspiracy theory, its vice-president Kurt Okraku insisting that the body would never seek to influence the outcome of a competition.

The CAF’s second vice-president, Kurt Okraku, firmly rejected any accusation of manipulation aimed at favoring Morocco, the host country, during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. These suspicions emerged throughout the tournament, fueled by several controversial refereeing decisions perceived as favorable to Morocco, which was ultimately beaten in the final by Senegal. The fact that the Kingdom has regularly hosted major CAF competitions in recent years has also fueled speculation about a possible intention by the continental body to “reward” the host country.

There can be no conspiracy within the leadership, myself included, to favor Morocco. That will never happen, he said in remarks carried by Metro TV. The CAF, by its nature and its structure, will never manipulate any system to advantage a member association.

Overall praised for the quality of its organization, its atmosphere and its level of play, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was nevertheless marred by controversy, notably during the final, marked by the protest of the Lions of Teranga, who had briefly left the pitch before returning to claim their second continental title.

Okraku acknowledged that some episodes may have surprised, without, in his view, tarnishing the value of the competition. The scenes observed that day were not those we expected, but they are part of the show as well. They mainly reflect Senegal’s determination to assert themselves, he explained. The Ghanaian leader also stressed defending the refereeing body, reminding that mistakes are an integral part of football, on all continents.