'It's news that arrived very late – Yassine Bounou on CAF's AFCON ruling

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has described the Confederation of African Football's decision to award Morocco the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title as welcome but long overdue.

Speaking after helping Al-Hilal secure their place in the King's Cup final with a penalty shootout victory, Bounou was asked about the ruling that stripped Senegal of the trophy and declared Morocco champions.

"The AFCON? Honestly, it's news that arrived very late, but as a Moroccan and a national team player who lived through that difficult moment, you can't help but be happy," he said.

The January 18 final in Rabat saw Senegal players walk off the pitch for approximately 17 minutes to protest a late penalty awarded to Morocco after VAR intervention. They eventually returned; Brahim Diaz missed the spot kick, and Senegal scored the winner in extra time.

On March 17, CAF's Appeal Board ruled that Senegal's walkout breached tournament regulations, deeming the team had forfeited the match. The result was recorded as a 3-0 victory for Morocco, awarding them their first AFCON title in 50 years.

For Bounou and his teammates, the decision brings some resolution to a night that ended in disappointment on the pitch. But for Senegal, the fight continues at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.