Algerian football commentator Hafid Derradji has discussed the ongoing dispute between Morocco and Senegal over the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title, predicting that the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will deliver its decision before the end of the month.
The controversy followed Senegal’s initial triumph in the continental competition before the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Appeals Committee stripped the Teranga Lions of the title and awarded it to Morocco.
Senegal’s challenge against that decision has since reached CAS, leaving the sporting dispute to be resolved through the arbitration process.
Speaking on the programme With Hafid, broadcast on the Winwin platform, Derradji said he did not expect the court to refer the case back to CAF.
He outlined two possible outcomes: the court could uphold Morocco’s coronation as champions or overturn the decision and restore the title to Senegal.
The case has drawn attention to the administration of African football and the procedures surrounding major continental competitions. Derradji also addressed wider issues involving CAF’s leadership and the future of its president, Patrice Motsepe.
His discussion extended beyond African football to the internal power struggles within FIFA and the pressures facing its president, Gianni Infantino.
The commentator’s remarks come as the Morocco-Senegal dispute remains a major talking point in African football, with the eventual ruling expected to determine which country retains the 2025 continental crown.
Derradji assesses Champions League performances
Away from the administrative disputes, Derradji reviewed recent performances in the UEFA Champions League, highlighting Paris Saint-Germain’s 4-2 victory over Manchester City.
The Algerian commentator praised PSG’s display, with the French side producing a strong performance to overcome their English opponents.
He also singled out Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal for praise after the Spanish club recorded a 4-1 victory over Galatasaray.
Yamal’s contribution and Barcelona’s overall performance were among the other European football talking points discussed during the programme.
Derradji also examined Real Madrid’s comeback against Roma, attributing the Spanish side’s recovery to their character, identity and the tactical decisions made by manager Jose Mourinho.
He highlighted the decision to substitute Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior, noting that the player appeared to be struggling physically during the match.
According to Derradji, the changes made from the touchline played an important role in shaping the outcome of the contest.
Derradji questions Aït-Nouri selection rumours
The commentator also expressed surprise at reports concerning the Algeria national team’s selection policy and defender Rayan Aït-Nouri.
Rumours had suggested that members of the national team’s technical staff wanted the Manchester City player to establish himself as a regular starter for his club before being called up to represent Algeria.
Derradji questioned the reports, bringing his discussion to a close by highlighting his doubts about the alleged condition.
His comments covered a range of issues affecting international football, from the legal dispute over the Africa Cup of Nations title to leadership questions within FIFA and CAF, alongside performances and selection debates involving some of the game’s leading clubs and players.
