The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened disciplinary proceedings against Senegal and Morocco following a series of controversial incidents that overshadowed the AFCON 2025 final in Rabat.
In a strongly worded statement released on its official platforms, CAF described the conduct of players and officials from both teams as “unacceptable behaviour,” signalling possible sanctions after reviewing match footage from the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah.
The flashpoints unfolded late in normal time after Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala disallowed a Senegal goal for a foul in the build-up, a decision that could not be reviewed by VAR.
Moments later, Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR check after El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have pulled down Brahim Díaz during a corner.
The decision sparked immediate outrage from the Senegal camp. Acting on instructions from head coach Pape Thiaw, most Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest, leaving captain Sadio Mané behind as tensions escalated.
Technical staff from both benches were also involved in heated exchanges as the stoppage dragged on, forcing a lengthy delay before play eventually resumed.
As the standoff continued, Moroccan players Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saibari were seen handling Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy’s towel near the goalmouth, further raising controversy.
When the match restarted, Díaz attempted an audacious Panenka penalty, but Mendy remained composed, catching the chipped effort to deny the hosts a dramatic winner.
The miss proved decisive. Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye later struck in extra time to hand Senegal a 1-0 victory and their second AFCON title.
CAF confirmed it is now assessing all available footage from the final, with disciplinary action expected once the investigation concludes.
“The Confédération Africaine de Football condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final,” the statement read.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour, especially acts targeting match officials or organisers. The matter will be referred to the competent bodies for appropriate action.”
While CAF has not outlined specific penalties, sources indicate Senegal could face fines for walking off the pitch, with further sanctions possible for individuals from both teams.
The final, intended as a showcase for African football, instead ended under a cloud of controversy, with disciplinary fallout now set to extend well beyond the trophy presentation.
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