FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed that Senegal’s actions of leaving the field in protest against referee decisions during the Africa Cup of Nations title match were “unacceptable.” Senegal eventually won the title amid chaotic scenes on the pitch.
Infantino specifically criticized the conduct of Senegal’s coaches, players, and some fans following the conclusion of the match against host nation Morocco, highlighting the inappropriate nature of their actions during such a significant international event.
In a post on his Instagram account, Infantino stated, “The ugly scenes witnessed yesterday must be condemned and never repeated.” He also called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take suitable disciplinary action.
CAF echoed these sentiments in a statement, deeming the behavior unacceptable and announcing a review of the footage to hold those responsible accountable.
Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw could face significant penalties for encouraging his players to return to the locker room after Morocco was awarded a controversial stoppage-time penalty, which halted the game for nearly 15 minutes.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) indicated that it would file complaints with FIFA and CAF regarding the incident, stating that Senegal’s withdrawal disrupted the match and players’ performance.
It’s uncertain if any sanctions against Thiaw would affect only future African competitions or extend to FIFA’s World Cup in North America, where Senegal is set to face France on June 16 at MetLife Stadium, and again against Norway six days later.
Senegal’s team and supporters were left frustrated when a potential winning goal early in stoppage time was disallowed due to a foul call by the referee.
Shortly thereafter, Morocco earned a penalty following a video review that determined Senegal’s defender had fouled star forward Brahim Díaz during a corner kick.
This controversial penalty fueled perceptions that Morocco was receiving favorable treatment in a tournament that is also promoting the 2030 World Cup co-hosting initiative.
Thiaw led his players off the field in a bid to prevent Díaz from taking the decisive penalty as Senegal fans clashed with police at the opposite end of the stadium.
Infantino condemned such behavior, stating, “Leaving the field in this manner is unacceptable, and violence has no place in our sport.” He reiterated that respect for match officials is imperative and emphasized the importance of competing fairly according to the Laws of the Game.
Morocco’s coach Walid Regragui described the events as a “shameful” representation of African soccer to a global audience.
When play resumed, in a bizarre twist during the 24th minute of stoppage time, Díaz executed one of the most infamous penalties in soccer history. His weak, low Panenka shot was easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
Senegal went on to secure victory with a powerful strike from Pape Gueye just four minutes into extra time.
Infantino extended his congratulations to Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Association, while urging teams and players to model positive behavior for fans both in stadiums and those watching globally.
During the match interruption, outraged Senegal supporters breached barricades, throwing chairs onto the field and clashing with stewards until police intervened to restore order.
The federation announced it would seek legal recourse with CAF and FIFA regarding the player’s withdrawal from the field and the events that unfolded following the referee’s penalty announcement, which experts deemed valid.
On the same day, CAF condemned the “unacceptable behavior” exhibited by certain players and officials during the AFCON final, firmly rejecting any misconduct aimed at the referees or organizers, though it did not specifically name the Senegal delegation.
Following the match, Morocco’s coach Regragui criticized Thiaw’s decision to withdraw his team and defended Díaz regarding the missed penalty.
Regragui noted that the delay before Díaz took the penalty likely disrupted his focus, adding, “The match we experienced was a disgrace for Africa.”
Díaz also issued a heartfelt statement, expressing regret over his failed penalty: “My soul hurts. I dreamed of this title with all the love and support you’ve shown me. I fought with everything I had… Yesterday, I failed, and I take full responsibility. I apologize from the bottom of my heart.” He added, “It will take time to heal this wound, but I will keep striving until I can repay all the love and become a source of pride for my Moroccan people.”
Information from Efe and AP contributed to this report.