Sunday’s African Cup of Nations final descended into chaos on and off the pitch as Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 in the most dramatic of circumstances.
Police arrest after AFCON final (Image: Getty Images)
Police have confirmed that 19 fans have been arrested in the aftermath of the Africa Cup of Nations final. Under dramatic circumstances, Pape Gueye’s goal in the fourth minute of extra time sealed the victory and lifted the trophy for Senegal. However, that alone didn’t tell even half the story.
Morocco had been given a golden opportunity to lift the trophy in peacetime after a controversial penalty was awarded. The awards ceremony saw many Senegalese players leave the pitch and head for the tunnel as coach Pape Thiau beckoned his team to protest the decision.
They eventually relented, but Edouard Mendy grabbed Brahim Dias’ Panenka penalty and the game went into extra time. There were shocking scenes of chairs being thrown in the stands at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium as a large number of Senegalese fans tried to enter the pitch.
read more: Senegal coach Pape Tiao could be suspended from the World Cup after AFCON turmoilread more: Brahim Diaz releases statement on AFCON punishment after claims he missed on purpose
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According to AFP news agency via RMC Sports, 18 Senegalese fans and one Algerian were arrested. It is believed that the arrests were made to question Senegalese supporters about hooliganism inside the stadium. Algerians are suspected of inciting hooliganism.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino said: “We strongly condemn the actions of some Senegalese players and technical staff, as well as some ‘supporters’. Leaving the field in this way is unacceptable, and violence likewise cannot be tolerated in our sport. It is simply not right.”
“We must always respect the decisions of match officials on and off the field of play, as failing to do so will put the very essence of football at risk. The ugly scenes witnessed are condemnable and should never be repeated. I look forward to the relevant disciplinary bodies of CAF taking appropriate action.”
Sunday’s AFCON final descended into chaos (Image: Getty Images)
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African governing body CAF added: “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior that occurs during matches, especially towards the refereeing team and match organizers.”
“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to the competent authorities to take appropriate action against those found guilty.”
Senegal national team coach Thiau may receive a long-term suspension for his actions in this scene. The post-match press conference was forced to be canceled amid boos from Moroccan journalists.
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