Senegal’s walk-off and fan violence mar Morocco’s AFCON final, prompting CAF investigation and FIFA criticism despite host nation’s overall success.
RABAT: Chaotic scenes have left a permanent stain on the Africa Cup of Nations final, overshadowing Morocco’s successful hosting of the tournament.
The controversy erupted after Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a late penalty following a VAR check.
Senegal’s players, infuriated by the decision, walked off the pitch under instructions from coach Pape Thiaw as fans clashed with security.
The remarkable drama continued after a long delay, with Brahim Diaz’s penalty saved and Pape Gueye scoring an extra-time winner for Senegal.
The Confederation of African Football said it would take “appropriate action” against those guilty of “unacceptable behaviour”.
Senegal now faces potential sanctions that could impact their AFCON title defence next year.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino criticised Senegal’s behaviour, while coach Thiaw later apologised for the team’s reaction.
“Sometimes you can react in the heat of the moment,” Thiaw told French television.
Morocco coach Walid Regragui slammed Thiaw’s actions, stating they did not honour African football.
Despite the finale, Senegal celebrated a second AFCON triumph in three editions, led by veteran Sadio Mane.
The tournament had otherwise been a smooth success for Morocco, showcasing magnificent stadiums and infrastructure.
Morocco is preparing to co-host the 2030 World Cup, with an ambitious 115,000-seat stadium project underway.
The final also highlighted broader issues, including pre-match security concerns for the Senegalese squad.
FIFA will likely review organisational matters to prevent repeats during the upcoming World Cup.
The incident also resembled a rebellion against VAR, exacerbated by a previous disallowed Senegal goal.
Senegal’s anger was fuelled by a soft foul call that denied them a goal without a VAR review.
In different circumstances, that goal might have stood and Morocco’s penalty may have been ignored.
Both nations will now turn their focus to the World Cup in North America this June.
