AFCON final: FIFA president slams Senegal over ‘unacceptable scenes’

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned Senegalese players and officials over what he described as “unacceptable scenes” that marred Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.

Infantino criticised the decision of some Senegal players and technical staff to walk off the pitch in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco during normal time of the final, which ended 1-0 in Senegal’s favour after extra time.

“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some supporters as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members,” Infantino said in a statement sent to AFP.

“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner. Violence also has no place in football.”

The dramatic incident occurred deep into stoppage time with the score still goalless, when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR review for a foul on Brahim Diaz.

Angered by the decision — and by an earlier goal ruled out for a foul — most Senegal players walked off the pitch, bringing the match to a halt for nearly 20 minutes.

Senegal captain Sadio Mané, however, remained on the field and was seen urging his teammates to return and resume play.

During the delay, chaos also broke out in the stands as some Senegal supporters attempted to enter the pitch, clashing with security officials.

When play eventually resumed, Diaz’s attempted Panenka penalty was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, forcing the match into extra time.

Senegal later secured victory through a stunning strike from Pape Gueye in the fourth minute of extra time to clinch their second AFCON title.

While congratulating Morocco on what he described as a “fantastic tournament” and praising the country’s role as hosts ahead of the 2030 World Cup, Infantino stressed that teams must respect match officials’ decisions.

“We must always respect the decisions taken by match officials, on and off the field of play,” he said.

“Teams must compete within the Laws of the Game. Anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”

The FIFA president warned that the scenes sent a negative message to fans watching around the world and urged disciplinary action.

“The ugly scenes witnessed must be condemned and never repeated. I expect CAF’s disciplinary bodies to take the appropriate measures,” he added.