FIFA, CAF condemn 'unacceptable scenes' at AFCON 2025 Final in Rabat
The Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco has come under intense scrutiny after dramatic scenes disrupted the match and delayed its conclusion by nearly 20 minutes, prompting strong condemnation from both FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Senegal ultimately defeated tournament hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat to lift the AFCON 2025 title. However, the historic triumph was overshadowed by protests, player walk-offs and crowd disturbances late in normal time.
Penalty decision sparks protests and walk-fff
The flashpoint came deep into stoppage time with the score locked at 0–0 when the referee awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. The decision infuriated Senegalese players, who were still aggrieved by the earlier disallowance of a Senegal goal for a foul.
In protest, most of Senegal’s players and some members of the technical staff walked off the pitch, leaving the game suspended as tensions escalated inside the stadium. Captain Sadio Mané remained on the field and was seen urging his teammates to return and see out the match.
After a prolonged delay, order was restored and Díaz stepped up to take the penalty, attempting a delicate chip that was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The miss forced the match into extra time.
Related Article: Senegal beat Morocco to win AFCON 2025
While players were off the pitch, disorder also erupted in the stands. Sections of Senegal supporters attempted to breach security barriers, leading to clashes with stewards and security personnel. Objects were thrown, and chairs were reportedly used during scuffles, compounding the disruption.
The combined incidents halted play for almost 20 minutes, drawing global attention and criticism as millions watched the final unfold.
Senegal strike in extra time
Despite the turmoil, Senegal regrouped and delivered the decisive moment early in extra time. Pape Gueye stunned the home crowd in the fourth minute with a well-taken strike that proved enough to secure victory and Senegal’s second AFCON title in recent years.
The goal sealed a famous win but did little to shift focus away from the controversy that preceded it.
FIFA President issues strong rebuke
FIFA president Gianni Infantino was quick to condemn the conduct of players, officials and supporters involved in the disturbances.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some supporters as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members,” Infantino said in a statement. “It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and violence has no place in football.”
While congratulating Senegal on their success and praising Morocco’s organisation of the tournament, Infantino stressed that respect for refereeing decisions is fundamental to the sport.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Anything less puts the very essence of football at risk,” he added.
CAF opens disciplinary review
CAF confirmed it has launched a formal investigation into the incidents and will review all available footage from the final.
“The Confédération Africaine de Football condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players, officials and supporters during the AFCON 2025 final,” the governing body said. “CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to the competent bodies for appropriate action.”
Potential sanctions could include fines, suspensions or other disciplinary measures once responsibility is established.
Regragui and Thiaw react
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui described the scenes as damaging to the image of African football, particularly with the continent under increased global scrutiny ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host.
“The image we showed of African football was rather shameful,” Regragui said. “Stopping a final for more than 10 minutes with the world watching is not something that honours us.”
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw later admitted he made a mistake by instructing players to leave the pitch.
“After reflecting, I realised I shouldn’t have asked them to walk off,” Thiaw said. “We felt a sense of injustice, but referees can make mistakes and we accept that.”
Related Article: Meet the Coaches leading the AFCON 2025 Semi-Finalists
Focus shifts to discipline and image
Infantino, who was seen speaking with Mané during the trophy presentation, emphasised that players and teams must act as role models.
“It is the responsibility of teams and players to set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world,” he said. “The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated.”
With both FIFA and CAF now involved, attention turns to how decisively African football’s authorities will act to protect the integrity of the game and prevent a repeat of the scenes that marred what should have been a celebration of the continent’s flagship tournament.
SportsLigue