Morocco vs Senegal: CAF condemns ‘unacceptable behaviour’ during AFCON Final

The Confederation of African Football issued a statement on Monday condemning the “unacceptable behaviour” of players and officials during the AFCON 2025-2026 final between Morocco and Senegal.

The controversy erupted in the final after Morocco were awarded a penalty deep into stoppage time at the end of regular time while the match was still goalless.

Senegal’s players were furious about the decision and a number of players left the field. Play was stopped for about 20 minutes before Brahim Diaz took the penalty, which was saved by Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

«CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior that takes place during matches, especially behavior directed against the refereeing team or match organizers. CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to appropriate authorities so that appropriate action can be taken against those found guilty,» the CAF statement said.

Senegal eventually won the match as Pape Gueye’s goal secured a 1–0 win over the hosts in extra time.

READ ALSO: Senegal wins AFCON 2025 after beating Morocco in chaotic final

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw had apologized for asking his players to leave the field. «I didn’t appreciate telling my players to leave the field at all. I apologize for the football,» Thiaw said beIN SPORTS after the match.

«After a lot of thought, I let them come back. Sometimes you can react in the heat of the moment. But we accept the referee’s mistakes.»

Senegal’s actions also provoked criticism from FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who visited the stadium in Rabat.

«We strongly condemn the behavior of some ‘supporters’, but also of some Senegalese players and coaching staff. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this way,» Infantino said in a statement to AFP.

Published on January 19, 2026