The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed down heavy sanctions on Senegal and Morocco following the chaotic AFCON 2025 final in Rabat. The final, which saw Senegal lift the trophy 1–0 after extra time, descended into chaos with a controversial late penalty, walk-offs, and scuffles involving players, officials, and even journalists.
$1 Million in Fines for Misconduct
CAF’s Disciplinary Board fined the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) $615,000 and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) $315,000 for unsporting and improper conduct by players, officials, and supporters. Additional fines targeted specific actions, such as Moroccan ball boys attempting to distract Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, resulting in a $200,000 fine for Morocco.
“These sanctions send a strong message about discipline, fair play, and respect for match officials in African football,” CAF stated.
Key Player and Coach Suspensions
Among the most severe punishments:
- Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw was banned for five CAF matches and fined $100,000 for unsporting conduct and bringing the game into disrepute.
- Senegal players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr each were banned for two CAF games.
- Morocco midfielder Ismaël Saibari received a three-match ban and was fined $100,000.
- Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi received a two-match ban, with one match suspended.
CAF confirmed that these bans apply only to African competitions and will not affect World Cup participation, as both nations are qualified.
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The Chaotic AFCON 2025 Final
The drama unfolded in the 2025 final when Morocco was awarded a late penalty after a VAR review. Senegal’s players, led by Thiaw, briefly walked off the pitch in protest. Security had to intervene as tensions escalated, preventing potential pitch invasions.
When play resumed, Mendy saved the penalty, and Senegal went on to win 1–0 after Pape Gueye scored in extra time. The match also saw confrontations among players on the sidelines, scuffles involving journalists, and inappropriate fan behaviour.
Morocco’s 2030 World Cup Ambitions Affected
The misconduct raised concerns for Morocco, which is set to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. CAF’s fines included $100,000 for VAR interference and $15,000 for laser pointer use by Moroccan supporters. FIFA has yet to confirm the location for the World Cup final, with Spain now positioning itself to host.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui described the match as “shameful,” while Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko urged calm, describing the walk-off as “emotional outbursts, not political rifts.”
CAF’s Strong Message
CAF’s disciplinary action closes a turbulent chapter in AFCON 2025. By imposing fines and bans totalling over $1 million, the confederation has emphasised that misconduct, violence, and disrespect towards match officials will not be tolerated in African football.
“This is a reminder that fair play, discipline, and respect for referees are non-negotiable,” CAF said.
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