CAF will investigate the chaotic end to the AFCON final with Morocco, which presented the Fair Play trophy

The Confederation of African Football announced an investigation into the « unacceptable behavior of some players and officials » that marred the end of the AFCON final in Rabat last night.

In the end, Senegal beat Morocco 1-0 in extra time thanks to Pape Gueye’s stunning goal, but not before a shambolic end to regular time that included the Lions of Teranga leaving the pitch in protest at two refereeing decisions in quick succession.

Shortly after match official Jean-Jacques Ndala disallowed a Senegal goal for a seemingly innocuous challenge by Abdoulaye Sek on Achraf Hakimi, he was then ordered by VAR to go to the pitchside monitor and review El Hadji Malik Diouf’s tackle on Brahim Diaz in the area.

Again contact appeared to be minimal, but he pointed to the spot, which drew the ire of the Senegalese players and their small group of traveling supporters, some of whom fought with security as they tried to get onto the pitch.

Senegal manager Pape Thiau was clearly seen waving his hand to instruct his players to leave the pitch. Only Sadio Mane remained, and the Al-Nasr striker was visibly angry at what was happening.

Morocco’s Diaz misses after a long delay, giving Senegal a reprieve

After a delay of around 17 minutes, Senegal’s players came back and Diaz took the penalty only for Panenka to try and flick the spot-kick straight into the hands of Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Ndala then blew the final whistle to take the game into ET.

A statement from CAF this morning read: “The Confederation of African Football condemns the unacceptable behavior of some players and officials during the CAF Morocco 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night.

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior that occurs during matches, especially those directed at the refereeing staff or match organisers.

« CAF is reviewing all the footage and will refer the matter to the relevant authorities to take appropriate action against those found guilty. »

Senegal boss Thiau is in trouble

Thiau is likely to be sanctioned for his part in sending his team off the field, while the behavior of several Morocco players – in addition to staff during the match – will also be scrutinized after online footage showed boys attempting to steal Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel.

In another twist, Morocco were awarded the Fair Play Trophy for their conduct throughout the tournament by CAF.

It was given to « the team that will display the best spirit of fair play during the final phase of the Africa Cup of Nations, in accordance with the CAF Fair Play Rules ».

Definitive AFCON coverage

Match report
Mendy rejects suggestions Diaz missed a penalty on purpose
Tiaw apologized to football for Senegal’s relegation
Watch as Moroccan players and players try to steal Mendy’s towel