The Confederation of African Football has launched a formal investigation into what it termed unacceptable behavior by players and officials following the chaotic final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat.
The showpiece match descended into unprecedented chaos in the eighth minute of stoppage time when the host nation was awarded a controversial penalty. West Ham defender El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have pulled back Brahim Diaz in the area, and following a pitchside VAR review, referee Jean Jacques Ndala pointed to the spot.
In response to the decision, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his entire team off the pitch in truly extraordinary scenes that stunned the football world. The delay lasted approximately 17 minutes, during which police were forced to intervene in the stands to quell disturbances among supporters.
Sadio Mane, who remained on the pitch throughout the protest, played a crucial role in convincing his teammates to return and protect the image of African football. The match eventually resumed, with Brahim Diaz missing his penalty attempt. Senegal went on to secure victory through a decisive extra-time goal by midfielder Pape Gueye, clinching their second AFCON title.
CAF issued a strong statement condemning the incidents. The governing body stated that it strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers. CAF confirmed it is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action against those found guilty.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also weighed in, condemning what he called unacceptable scenes involving some Senegal players. Infantino stated that it is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner and emphasized that violence cannot be tolerated in football under any circumstances.
Additional incidents marred the final, including an altercation involving Senegal's reserve goalkeeper Yehvan Diouf, who was seen fighting off ball boys and flag bearers during extra time behind Senegal's goal. Video footage circulating online showed the confrontation centered on goalkeeper Edouard Mendy's towel, which the ball boys allegedly attempted to take.
The investigation will examine the conduct of the Senegal team and their fans, as well as any potential shortcomings by Moroccan organizers in managing the event. Both nations could face sanctions depending on the findings, with potential punishments ranging from fines to bans from future competitions.
Despite claiming their second continental title, Senegal's triumph has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding their conduct during the match. The incident has sparked widespread debate about sportsmanship and the need for stricter enforcement of disciplinary measures in African football.