CAF Issues Heavy Sanctions Against Senegal, Morocco Following AFCON 2025 Final Chaos

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a sweeping set of disciplinary measures against the Senegalese and Moroccan football federations, as well as several players and officials, following the chaotic scenes that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat.

In a statement released late Wednesday, January 28, CAF confirmed that the punishments stem from breaches of its Disciplinary Code, including violations of fair play, loyalty and integrity during and after the title clash.

The final, played at the Stade Mohammed V on January 18, 2026, spiralled into controversy in the closing minutes of normal time. With the score locked at 0-0, Senegal had a goal ruled out for offside before a VAR review awarded hosts Morocco a penalty deep into stoppage time.

Furious at the decision, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw led his players off the pitch in protest, triggering heated scenes that required security intervention.

After a lengthy delay, the Senegalese side returned to the field, and Morocco’s penalty was saved by Édouard Mendy, sending the match into extra time.

Senegal eventually clinched the title when Pape Gueye struck early in the first half of extra time. The disorder drew condemnation at the time from both CAF and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Full Breakdown of CAF’s Disciplinary Ruling on the AFCON 2025 Fallout

Senegal Football Federation (FSF)

CAF imposed a series of fines and suspensions on Senegal, citing misconduct by players, officials and supporters.

Fines

USD 300,000 for the improper conduct of supporters

USD 300,000 for the unsporting behaviour of players and technical staff, bringing the game into disrepute

USD 15,000 for team misconduct, linked to five yellow cards received in the final
Total fines: USD 615,000

Suspensions and Individual Sanctions

CAF suspended Senegal head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw for five official CAF matches, citing unsporting conduct.

“Mr Pape Bouna Thiaw was also fined USD 100,000,” the statement read.

Players Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were each handed two-match suspensions for unsporting behaviour towards the referee.

Morocco Football Federation (FRMF)
Morocco and its federation were also punished for conduct during the final.

Fines

USD 200,000 for the inappropriate behaviour of stadium ball boys

USD 100,000 for improper conduct by players and technical staff who invaded the VAR review area and obstructed the referee

USD 15,000 for the use of lasers by Moroccan supporters
Total fines: USD 315,000

Suspensions and Individual Sanctions

Defender Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two official CAF matches for unsporting behaviour, with one match suspended for one year from the date of the ruling.

Midfielder Ismaël Saibari received a three-match suspension and an additional USD 100,000 fine for unsporting behaviour.
Morocco’s Protest Rejected, Senegal Confirmed as Champions

CAF also addressed a protest filed by the Moroccan federation, which alleged that Senegal breached Articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations regulations.

“The CAF Disciplinary Board rejected the protest lodged by the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football regarding alleged violations by the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football of Articles 82 and 84 of the Regulations of the Africa Cup of Nations, relating to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final,” the statement added.

The decision confirms Senegal as the rightful AFCON 2025 champions, ending speculation over a possible title reversal.

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