CAF Disciplinary Board Imposes Sanctions After AFCON Final Chaos
Rabat, Morocco — January 29, 2026 The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has handed down sanctions to both Senegal and Morocco following chaotic scenes during the AFCON 2025 final in Rabat.
The match, which ended in a dramatic 1–0 victory for Senegal in extra time, was marred by crowd unrest, heated protests over a late VAR penalty decision, and confrontations involving players and officials.
Key Sanctions
- Senegal (FSF):
- Head coach Pape Thiaw suspended for five CAF matches.
- Fined $100,000 for unsporting conduct after ordering players to walk off the pitch.
- Additional disciplinary measures against players involved in misconduct.
- Morocco (FRMF):
- Financial penalties for crowd disorder and breaches of CAF’s disciplinary code.
- Sanctions against players and officials who confronted match officials.
CAF stated that the sanctions were necessary to uphold the principles of fair play, integrity, and respect for the game, warning that stricter monitoring will be enforced in future tournaments.
“The integrity of African football must be protected. We will not tolerate actions that bring the game into disrepute,” CAF noted in its ruling.
- Senegal faces a major setback as their coach’s suspension could affect upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
- Morocco’s reputation as host nation has come under scrutiny due to crowd unrest and security lapses.
- The ruling has reignited debate over the role of VAR decisions in escalating tensions during high-stakes matches.
CAF’s disciplinary ruling underscores the growing challenge of maintaining order and fairness in African football. The sanctions serve as both punishment and warning, highlighting the need for stronger governance in the sport.
