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Senegal Faces CAF Punishment After Afcon Final Walk-Off Protest

Senegal is facing likely disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football after its team temporarily walked off the pitch in protest during the Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco. The incident occurred in stoppage time when Morocco was awarded a controversial penalty via VAR, prompting coach Pape Thiaw to lead his players from the field. After a 16-minute delay, play resumed, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal went on to win the match in extra time. CAF has issued a strong statement condemning the walk-off as unacceptable and is reviewing footage for potential sanctions.

Key Points: Senegal Afcon Walk-Off: CAF Condemns, Punishment Likely

  • Senegal walked off over late penalty
  • CAF condemns action, review underway
  • Match resumed after 16-minute delay
  • Senegal won in extra time despite controversy
2 min read

Football: Senegal to face punishment as CAF condemns Afcon Final walk-off

Senegal could be punished by CAF after players walked off in Afcon final protest over a penalty decision, overshadowing their trophy win against Morocco.

"CAF condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials - CAF Statement"

Morocco, Jan 19

Senegal is likely to face disciplinary action after temporarily leaving the pitch in protest during a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final against hosts Morocco, an incident that overshadowed their eventual triumph.

The controversy unfolded deep into stoppage time when Morocco was awarded a penalty following a VAR review, moments after Senegal had a goal disallowed. Outraged by the decision, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw led his players off the field, halting the match in Rabat and sparking confusion inside the stadium.

After a delay of around 16 minutes, play resumed when the Senegal players returned to the pitch. Morocco's Brahim Diaz failed to convert the penalty, and the match proceeded into extra time, where Senegal sealed victory through a stunning strike from Pape Gueye.

Despite lifting the trophy, Senegal's celebrations may be muted by the prospect of punishment from the Confederation of African Football.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) issued a strong statement condemning the incident, making it clear that it viewed the walk-off as unacceptable conduct.

"CAF condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night," the statement read.

The governing body reiterated its stance against any actions that undermine match officials or tournament organisers.

"CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers. CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty."

Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane appeared uncomfortable with the protest and later stressed that abandoning the match would have sent the wrong message. He said Senegal would have been 'crazy' not to finish the game.

"It would have been a shame and sad to see this kind of scenario happen. Just imagine going into the locker rooms and the match stopping there. That would give a negative image of our football." Mane told reporters after the match.

Mane also highlighted the growth of African football on the global stage, insisting the game deserved better. "I'd rather lose than see this kind of thing happen to our football," he said.

CAF's final decision on potential sanctions is expected after its disciplinary review is completed.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
As a football fan, I'm torn. The VAR decision in stoppage time of a final must have felt devastating. But walking off sets a terrible precedent. You have to trust the process, even when it hurts. Respect to Mane for speaking sense amidst the chaos.
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David E
The passion is understandable, but the action was not. CAF has to take a stand, or every controversial call will lead to a walk-off. A fine and maybe a touchline ban for the coach, but please don't take the trophy away from the players who fought so hard.
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Ananya R
Feel for the Senegalese fans who paid good money and had to sit through 16 minutes of confusion. The players are role models for millions of kids in Africa and beyond. They should have shown more composure. Great victory, but a lesson in sportsmanship is needed.
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Karthik V
This is why we need better refereeing standards globally, not just in Africa. If the officials make a howler, teams feel helpless. But two wrongs don't make a right. Senegal won fair and square in extra time, that's what should be remembered.
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Sarah B
Respectful criticism: The coach's job is to manage emotions, not inflame them. Leading the team off was a failure of leadership in a high-pressure moment. The players showed great character to come back and win, but the management must be held accountable.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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