FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the conduct of some Senegalese players, officials and supporters following the chaotic scenes that marred Sunday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco in Rabat.
The controversy erupted late in the match when several Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest after Morocco were awarded a penalty deep into injury time, a decision reached following a VAR review for a foul on striker Brahim Díaz.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members,” Infantino said in a statement sent to AFP. “It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner. Equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport; it is simply not right.”
The final, held in Morocco, had been locked at 0–0 when the incident occurred. Senegalese players were incensed by the penalty decision, which came minutes after their own goal was disallowed for what appeared to be a soft foul.
Former Liverpool star Sadio Mané remained on the pitch and persuaded his teammates to return, as the match was halted for nearly 20 minutes amid mounting tension.
Trouble also spilled into the stands, where some Senegal supporters attempted to enter the field of play and clashed with security personnel, further delaying proceedings.
When the game eventually resumed, Díaz attempted a ‘Panenka’-style penalty, but the effort was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Senegal later sealed victory in extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring a superb goal in the fourth minute to secure a 1–0 win and the AFCON title.
While congratulating Morocco for a “fantastic tournament, both as runners-up and exceptional hosts,” Infantino stressed that teams must respect match officials’ decisions.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play,” he said. “Teams must compete within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”
Infantino warned that the scenes sent the wrong message to fans worldwide, particularly ahead of major global tournaments.
“It is the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world,” he added. “The ugly scenes witnessed must be condemned and never repeated. They have no place in football.”
The FIFA president said he expected the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take appropriate disciplinary action over the incident.
AFP
