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FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the conduct of some Senegalese players, officials, and supporters following the chaotic scenes that marred Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and host nation Morocco.
In a statement issued to AFP, Infantino described the incident as “unacceptable,” after several Senegal players walked off the pitch in protest of a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some supporters, as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner,” Infantino said.
“Equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport; it is simply not right.”
Match Disruption After VAR Decision
The controversy occurred deep into injury time of normal play with the score tied at 0-0, when Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. The decision sparked outrage among the Senegalese players, most of whom left the pitch in protest.
Senegal captain and former Liverpool star, Sadio Mané, remained on the field and was seen urging his teammates to return and allow the match to continue.
The players’ anger was further fueled by the earlier disallowance of a Senegal goal, which they believed resulted from a soft foul decision minutes before the penalty incident.
Crowd Trouble and Match Delay
Tensions also spilled into the stands, as some Senegalese supporters attempted to enter the pitch and clashed with security personnel. The unrest forced officials to halt the game for nearly 20 minutes before Morocco’s Brahim Díaz was able to take the penalty.
Díaz’s attempted ‘Panenka’ kick was weak and was comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, much to the relief of the Senegalese side.
Senegal Clinch Historic Victory
Despite the controversy, Senegal regrouped in extra time. Pape Gueye scored a stunning goal in the fourth minute of extra time, sealing a dramatic 1-0 victory and securing the AFCON title for Senegal.
While the final result crowned Senegal champions of Africa, the match will also be remembered for the disorder that overshadowed what was meant to be the continent’s biggest football spectacle.
