The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed down unprecedented disciplinary measures to both Senegal and the host nation, Morocco, in the wake of the chaotic scenes that marred the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final on January 18 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Senegal, who lifted their second continental title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Morocco (goal by Papa Gueye), faced the harsher penalties.
The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) was fined a staggering $615,000 in total, broken down as:
- $300,000 for improper conduct by supporters, which brought the game into disrepute.
- $300,000 for unsporting behaviour by players and technical staff, violating principles of fair play, loyalty, and integrity.
- $15,000 for team misconduct after five players received yellow cards during the match.
Individual punishments for Senegal included:
- Head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw suspended for five official CAF matches and fined $100,000 for unsporting conduct, breaching fair play and integrity rules, and bringing the game into disrepute—stemming from his role in the team’s brief walk-off protesting a late VAR-awarded penalty to Morocco.
- Players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr each suspended for two official CAF matches for unsporting behaviour towards the referee.
Morocco’s Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) was fined $415,000 overall, including:
- $200,000 for misconduct by stadium ball boys.
- $100,000 for improper conduct by players and technical staff (including entering the VAR area and obstructing the referee).
- $15,000 for fans’ use of lasers.
- Player Ismail Saibari fined and suspended for three official CAF matches.
- Achraf Hakimi is suspended for two official CAF matches.
In a key verdict, CAF rejected Morocco’s appeal to strip Senegal of the title due to the walk-off incident (which delayed play by around 15-17 minutes before the team returned). Senegal’s 1-0 win stands, confirming them as official AFCON 2025 champions.
The sanctions follow widespread condemnation of the events: a controversial stoppage-time penalty to Morocco (via VAR review of a challenge on Brahim Diaz), Senegal’s temporary protest walk-off, clashes involving Senegalese supporters and security, and post-match tensions.
CAF’s Disciplinary Board emphasised violations of the CAF Disciplinary Code, with all decisions aimed at upholding fair play and integrity.
Appeals are possible under CAF rules, but the rulings mark one of the heaviest combined penalties in recent African football history.
Senegal’s triumph remains intact, but the fallout—including coach suspensions and major fines—will impact their preparations for future continental competitions. Morocco, despite hosting, faces scrutiny over stadium management and supporter conduct.
