CAF Condemns “Unacceptable Behaviour” at AFCON Final, Launches Disciplinary Review
CAF to Review AFCON Final Incidents Following Controversial Morocco-Senegal Match
- CAF condemns “unacceptable behaviour” by players and officials during the Morocco vs. Senegal AFCON final.
- Senegal briefly walked off the pitch following a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco; the match resumed and ended 1–0 in Senegal’s favour.
- CAF is reviewing all footage and may impose fines, suspensions, or other sanctions on those found guilty.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has strongly condemned what it described as “unacceptable behaviour” by some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal, held in Rabat on Sunday night.
In a statement issued on January 19, 2026, CAF said it “strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour during matches, particularly actions directed at match officials or organisers.”
The continental football governing body confirmed that it is reviewing all available footage from the final and will refer the matter to the appropriate disciplinary bodies for action against those found culpable.
“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty,” the statement said.
The high-profile final, which brought the tournament in Morocco to a close, was overshadowed by disorderly scenes that attracted widespread attention. Tensions flared late in the match following controversial decisions, including a stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco, which prompted Senegalese players to briefly walk off the pitch in protest.
The match, which ended 0–0 after regulation time, resumed following several minutes of delay, before Senegal secured a 1–0 victory in extra time to clinch the title.
Although CAF did not name specific individuals involved in the misconduct, the statement underscored its firm stance on maintaining discipline and respect for match officials. The organisation reiterated that inappropriate conduct—whether on or off the field—will not be tolerated.
The ongoing review marks the first step toward possible sanctions, which may include fines, suspensions, or other disciplinary measures, depending on the outcome of CAF’s disciplinary proceedings.
