Casablanca – Morocco international Adam Masina has criticized Senegal’s conduct during the controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, insisting the opposition’s actions were “deplorable” and defending the decision to award Morocco the title.
Speaking to Italy’s Corriere della Sera, the Torino defender reflected on Morocco’s historic run on home soil, saying the tournament represented a landmark moment for African women’s football despite the controversy surrounding the final.
“Playing it in Morocco was magnificent. A tournament of this level had never been seen before. The only flaw was that final,” Masina said.
The final ended in extraordinary circumstances after Senegal left the pitch before the match was completed. Following a lengthy disciplinary process, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded the title to Morocco, a decision that Senegal later appealed.
Masina defended CAF’s ruling, criticizing the Senegalese team’s actions during the match.
“Senegal’s behavior was deplorable in leaving the field and harassing the opposing team until the very end. It was unsportsmanlike,” he said. “We’ll see what they decide on Senegal’s appeal, but for me, they can never have won.”
The 32-year-old admitted the circumstances prevented Morocco from fully enjoying the moment with their supporters.
“The bitterness of not being able to celebrate in front of our people remains.”
Masina also reflected on Morocco’s emergence as one of Africa’s leading football nations, attributing the country’s success to long-term planning rather than short-term results.
According to the defender, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) began investing in infrastructure, youth development, and player pathways more than two decades ago, laying the foundations for the national teams’ recent achievements.
“More than 20 years ago, the federation decided to invest in infrastructure, young players, and player development,” Masina explained.
“Look at the national team’s training center, it’s incredible. It’s like a small city with pitches, hospitals, and everything needed to help athletes reach the highest level.”
Morocco has enjoyed a remarkable rise in recent years, with both the men’s and women’s national teams reaching new heights on the continental and global stage, while the country continues to position itself as a major hub for African football through sustained investment in facilities and youth development.
