The African Cup of Nations final sparked controversy after Morocco were awarded a controversial penalty in stoppage time, causing Senegalese players to leave the pitch in protest.
Coach Gianni Infantino has called for proper etiquette following the chaos of the AFCON final (Image: PA)
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take action over the “ugly scenes” that took place in Sunday’s African Cup of Nations final, amid claims that Senegalese coach Pape Tiao has been suspended. The AFCON final descended into chaos in the final stages when coach Thiau ordered his players off the pitch in protest after the hosts were awarded a stoppage time penalty.
West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have committed a foul on Brahim Dias, and referee Jean-Jacques N’Dala was asked to consult VAR before pointing out the spot. All Senegalese players, except Liverpool icon Sadio Mane and the coaching staff, defiantly marched down the tunnel.
After a long delay, it finally reappeared 17 minutes later. However, Morocco’s chance for a dramatic finish was deflected as the Real Madrid forward attempted a panenka that was easily read by former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Senegal was able to win in overtime despite some lingering disappointment.
read more: Edouard Mendy claims Brahim Dias intentionally missed Panenka’s penalty in AFCON finalread more: Senegal coach ‘regrets’ AFCON rival’s outcry and orders of players off the pitch
Early on Monday morning, Infantino took to his Instagram account to comment on the incident in which Senegal temporarily refused to continue the match after a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco. Reports in Africa had suggested that CAF had begun disciplinary proceedings against Thiau, but it has now been suggested that he has been suspended.
“We witnessed unacceptable scenes both on the field and in the stands. We strongly condemn the actions of some ‘supporters’, some Senegalese players and technical staff,” Infantino wrote.
“Leaving the field of play in this way is unacceptable, and by the same token, violence is also unacceptable in our sport. It is simply not right. We must always respect the decisions made by match officials on and off the field of play.”
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“Teams must compete within the Laws of the Game on the pitch, because failing to do so will put the very essence of football at risk. It is also the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for the fans in the stadium and the millions of people watching around the world.”
“The ugly scenes witnessed today are condemnable and must never be repeated. I reiterate that there is no place for such behavior in football and I look forward to appropriate action being taken by the relevant disciplinary body at CAF.”
CAF issued a statement on Monday morning condemning the “unacceptable conduct” of some players and officials during the match.
Senegalese supporters clash with security officials after controversial penalty awarded to Morocco (Image: AP)
“The Confederation of African Football (“CAF”) condemns the unacceptable conduct of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate conduct during the match, especially towards the refereeing team and match organizers. CAF will investigate all images and submit the case to the competent authorities for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”
Senegal coach Walid Leglaghi later admitted that he should not have ordered his players off the pitch and that their actions did not “show respect to Africa”.
Senegal national team head coach Pape Thiau (Image: )
He said: “We did not agree. I don’t want to go into everything that happened. I apologize for football.”
“After reflecting, I let them come back (on the pitch). You can react with the intensity of the moment.
“We accept the referee’s mistake. We shouldn’t have done it, but it’s over. We now apologize to the football community.”
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