CAF, FIFA President Condemn Unacceptable Conduct During AFCON Final

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has strongly condemned the conduct of certain players and officials during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal, describing the incidents as unacceptable and below expected professional standards.

African football’s showpiece event was marred by most of the Senegal players leaving the pitch when, deep into injury time of normal play and with the match locked at 0-0, Morocco were awarded a spot-kick following a VAR check for a challenge on Brahim Diaz.

As a group of their fans fought with Moroccan security personnel at the other end of the stadium, Senegal’s players eventually returned to the pitch to see Diaz shoot a soft penalty into the arms of Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

In an official statement issued after the match, CAF said it is currently reviewing all available video footage from the final and will forward its findings to the appropriate disciplinary bodies. The continental football authority noted that suitable sanctions would be imposed on any individuals found guilty of misconduct.

CAF reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on actions that undermine respect for match officials, referees and the overall spirit of the game. The body further stressed its commitment to maintaining discipline and order across all its competitions.

“The behaviour witnessed does not reflect the values of African football,” CAF stated, adding that discipline remains a core pillar of the organisation’s regulations.

Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino also weighed in on the controversy in a post shared on Instagram. While congratulating both Senegal and Morocco for their performances in the final, Infantino expressed disappointment over scenes that marred the occasion.

“Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands,” Infantino wrote. “We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members.”

He further emphasised that abandoning the field of play in such a manner is unacceptable, adding that violence has no place in football.

“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play,” Infantino said. “Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”

The AFCON final, which was expected to be a celebration of African football, has since been overshadowed by the disciplinary controversy, with fans now awaiting the outcome of CAF’s investigations and possible sanctions.