Rabat, DZWatch – FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have strongly condemned the behavior of several Senegalese players and staff following the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final held in Rabat.
The controversy erupted after a penalty was awarded to Morocco in the dying moments of added time. According to an official statement, Infantino criticized the Senegalese team’s reaction, which involved players temporarily leaving the pitch in protest of the referee’s decision before eventually returning to complete the match.
“Leaving the field of play in this manner is completely unacceptable,” Infantino stated. He emphasized the importance of respecting referees’ decisions both on and off the field, adding that any behavior that violates the laws of the game threatens the essence and values of football and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.
Infantino also addressed the disorder in the stands, involving attempts by some fans to invade the pitch. He asserted that violence in football is unacceptable and called on the relevant CAF disciplinary bodies to take appropriate action.
CAF has also released a statement condemning the inappropriate conduct of some players and officials during the AFCON final. The statement emphasized CAF’s complete rejection of any action targeting match officials or organizers.
DZWatch has learned that CAF is currently reviewing all recorded footage from the match, and the case will be referred to the relevant authorities for necessary disciplinary sanctions against those involved, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The final saw Senegal crowned AFCON champions after defeating Morocco with a lone goal scored by Pape Gueye in the first half of extra time. The match was unfortunately overshadowed by unprecedented scenes of tension and disorder.
