Former Senegal international Boukary Dramé has acknowledged that Morocco could legally secure the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 title, urging Senegal to respect the final decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), even if it favors the Atlas Lions.

Speaking to African football outlet Africa Foot, Dramé admitted that the ongoing legal battle could end with Morocco officially retaining the continental title despite Senegal’s victory on the pitch.

“Even if we do not accept it, it is possible the title will go to Morocco, which is not what I hope for,” the former Paris Saint-Germain defender was quoted on Morocco World News.

He stressed that the dispute has reached a stage where legal procedures, rather than sporting preferences, will determine the final outcome.

“And if the ruling comes out considering them African champions before CAF and everyone, then we have to accept it,” Dramé added.

His remarks come after CAS held a hearing on Thursday, October 8, in Lausanne, Switzerland, to examine Senegal’s appeal against a decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The dispute concerns the AFCON 2025 final, which Senegal won 1-0 after extra time. However, CAF’s Appeals Committee later overturned the result, awarding Morocco a 3-0 victory and recognizing the Atlas Lions as continental champions.

Senegal subsequently challenged the ruling before CAS, seeking to overturn CAF’s decision and reclaim the title.

Beyond the legal consequences, Dramé expressed concern about the damage the controversy has caused to African football’s international reputation.

The former Senegal international, who represented his country between 2005 and 2016, believes the dispute highlights organizational challenges that African football must address.

“It is regrettable that we are giving the image of a continent that is not serious and still has a long way to go to reach the level of the Europeans,” he said.

Despite his criticism, Dramé expressed confidence that African football has the resources and potential to improve its standards.

He also called on football authorities to learn from the controversy and prevent similar incidents in future continental competitions.