RABAT, Morocco — FIFA president Gianni Infantino has condemned the conduct of Senegalese players and members of the coaching staff following chaotic scenes that overshadowed the conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations final, warning that walk-offs and violence threaten the integrity of the game.
Speaking after Senegal secured their AFCON title with a dramatic 1–0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco, Infantino congratulated the new champions but drew a sharp line between sporting success and unacceptable behaviour.
“We also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands – we strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members,” Infantino said.
“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”
A final defined by controversy
Senegal’s triumph, sealed by a Pape Gueye strike in extra time, was almost eclipsed by turmoil late in the match after a disputed penalty decision went against them.
As tensions rose, several Senegal players left the pitch in protest, prompting a temporary stoppage amid confrontations involving match officials.
The scenes reignited long-running debates within African football over refereeing standards, discipline, and the pressure faced by officials in high-stakes continental matches, particularly when host nations are involved.
While Senegal eventually returned to complete the match, the walk-off marked one of the most controversial moments in AFCON final history, raising questions about how governing bodies balance emotional intensity with strict enforcement of the Laws of the Game.
CAF signals disciplinary action
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) said it had opened a review into the incident and confirmed that disciplinary proceedings would follow.
“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty,” the continental body said in a statement.
CAF’s response comes amid growing scrutiny of player and official conduct at major tournaments, with football authorities under pressure to demonstrate consistency in sanctions, regardless of a team’s status, success, or popular support.
Beyond one match
Infantino’s intervention underscores FIFA’s broader concern that protests, intimidation of officials, and disorderly conduct, if left unchecked, could erode confidence in football’s governance, particularly in regions where trust in officiating is already fragile.
For Senegal, AFCON glory now coexists with the possibility of fines, suspensions, or other sanctions. For CAF, the incident represents a test of credibility: whether disciplinary frameworks will be applied firmly and transparently, even when Africa’s biggest football moments are at stake.
As celebrations continue in Dakar, the focus in Cairo and Zurich has shifted to accountability—and to ensuring that Africa’s flagship tournament is remembered for footballing excellence rather than scenes of chaos.
