Ivorian football pundit Mamadou Gaye has praised the integrity of the CAF Appeal Committee. The committee recently overturned Senegal’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title following a controversial ruling. The panel, chaired by respected Nigerian jurist Roli Daibo-Harriman, declared Morocco the winners after Senegal walked off during the final.
The CAF Appeal Board ruled on March 17 that Senegal breached Articles 82 and 84 of AFCON regulations. The final, held on January 18, initially saw Senegal defeat Morocco 1-0 in extra time. However, the forfeit ruling awarded a 3-0 victory to Morocco and sparked global outrage.
Gaye defended the committee’s independence during an appearance on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa. He emphasised that the Disciplinary Committee issued an initial ruling, Morocco appealed, and the Appeal Committee carefully evaluated all evidence. Cameras in the stadium were reviewed thoroughly to ensure transparency.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe received praise for refraining from interference in the disciplinary process. Gaye noted that this demonstrated unprecedented transparency and independence within African football administration.
Justice Roli Daibo-Harriman, a 65-year-old High Court judge from Delta State, chaired the nine-member panel. The committee included representatives from Guinea-Bissau, Tunisia, South Africa, Mauritania, Djibouti, Togo, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Daibo-Harriman has extensive expertise in Alternative Dispute Resolution and previously helped establish the Delta State Multidoor Courthouse.
Despite Gaye’s defence, the ruling continues to generate international backlash. Senegal’s Football Federation has confirmed its appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne. The decision remains a pivotal moment for African football, highlighting the challenges of maintaining fairness, transparency, and credibility across the continent.
