THE Confederation of African Football (CAF) has expressed its dissatisfaction with the conduct of players and officials during Sunday night’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and hosts Morocco.
The final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat descended into utter chaos as Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players off the pitch in protest after a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco with only seconds left of regulation time.
Senegal were aggrieved that moments earlier they had a good goal dubiously disallowed, but they eventually returned to the pitch and allowed the Morocco penalty to be taken.
Brahim Diaz missed the penalty after a cheeky Panenka attempt and Senegal went on to win the final with Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike.
Apart from the Senegal players leaving the pitch, there was also mayhem in the stands as fights broke out among the fans, and Morocco’s reserve players and ball boys also repeatedly stole Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towels, which he used to dry his gloves as it was a rainy night.
“The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night,” CAF said on Monday in an official statement.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers.
“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”