The Guinean Football Federation (FGF) has denied viral reports claiming that it filed an appeal with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to challenge Morocco’s 1976 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory.
The clarification comes after viral claims suggested that Guinea had demanded the 1976 AFCON trophy be awarded to the country, citing a reported walkout by Morocco during the final match of the tournament.
The rumours followed the CAF Appeals Board’s recent decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 AFCON title and award it to Morocco.
The CAF ruling found Senegal in violation of Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON regulations after several players walked off the pitch to protest a referee’s decision. This decision sparked widespread speculation and misinformation linking Guinea to historical contests.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the FGF described the reports as “inaccurate” and “without official basis.”
“In recent days, information circulating on various media, particularly social networks, has falsely suggested that Guinea had taken steps to contest the result of the match between the Syli National and Morocco during this competition,” the statement read.
““The Guinean Football Federation informs the national and international public that it has not initiated any procedure either with the Court of Arbitration for Sport or with CAF in relation to the 1976 Africa Cup of Nations,” the statement added.
FGF added that the reports are “inaccurate and not based on any official foundation,” calling for calm and responsible reporting.
The federation also took the opportunity to clarify the historical facts of the match in question.
The game between Guinea and Morocco was played on March 14, 1976, in Addis Ababa, with Guinea taking the lead through Souleymane Cherif in the 33rd minute before Morocco equalized late through Ahmed Makrouh, known as “Baba,” in the 86th minute.
The match ended 1-1.
FGF stressed that the tournament format at the time is key to understanding the outcome. There was no traditional final. Instead, a final group stage was used to determine the winner.
“In accordance with the regulations in force at the time, the competition did not include a classic final,” the federation said. “The qualified teams played a final group, and the ranking directly determined the winner.”
Morocco finished top of that group and were officially crowned African champions, with Guinea in second place.
By restating these facts, the federation effectively dismisses both parts of the rumor, the idea of a Moroccan walk-off and the suggestion of any ongoing legal challenge.
The statement ends with a broader message, urging media and observers to rely on verified information and avoid spreading claims that create confusion.
“The federation reaffirms its commitment to respecting historical facts and sporting regulations,” it said, adding that it remains focused on “fair play, mutual respect and the unity of African football.”
