The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has promised to take “appropriate action” following disorderly scenes that disrupted the Africa Cup of Nations final, while stopping short of assigning blame to either Senegal or hosts Morocco.
The controversy unfolded late in Sunday’s final in Rabat, with the match level at 0-0 deep into added time. Referee Jean Jacques Mdala awarded Morocco a penalty, prompting a strong reaction from the Senegal players, the majority of whom walked off the pitch in protest. Simultaneously, disturbances broke out in the stands, where a group of Senegal supporters clashed with Moroccan security personnel.
After a prolonged delay, order was partially restored and the players returned to the field. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy then dramatically saved Brahim Diaz’s penalty, a turning point that shifted the momentum decisively. Senegal capitalised in extra time, securing a 1-0 victory through a superb strike from Pape Gueye.
In a statement released on Monday, CAF condemned the conduct witnessed during the final, emphasising its zero-tolerance stance on behaviour that undermines the integrity of the competition.
“The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) condemns the unacceptable behaviour from some players and officials during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat,” the statement read.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers. CAF is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to the competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”
Notably, CAF avoided singling out either national team, underlining that its investigation will focus on individual actions rather than collective responsibility.
Former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane played a key role in de-escalating tensions on the pitch, remaining on the field and urging his team-mates to return and see out the match. His intervention proved pivotal in allowing the final to resume.
While Senegal ultimately celebrated a historic triumph, the dramatic circumstances have ensured that the match will be remembered as much for its controversy as for its football. CAF’s promised review now places the focus on governance and discipline, as African football’s authorities seek to reassert control and safeguard the credibility of their flagship tournament.
