The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed severe disciplinary measures following the tumultuous conclusion to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco. Senegal’s head coach Pape Thiaw faces a five-match suspension and a substantial $100,000 fine for what governing bodies have deemed “unsporting conduct” and actions “bringing the game into disrepute.”
The championship match in Rabat, ultimately secured by Senegal 1-0 in extra time, descended into chaos during stoppage time when Thiaw instructed his players to leave the field. This unprecedented move came in protest of a penalty awarded to Morocco, shortly after officials had disallowed a Senegalese goal for a foul on Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi.
The 17-minute interruption threatened to overshadow the sporting spectacle before Senegal forward Sadio Mane successfully persuaded his teammates to resume play. The dramatic conclusion saw Moroccan midfielder Brahim Diaz’s ‘Panenka’ penalty saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, immediately followed by the final whistle that sent the match into extra time, where Pape Gueye secured victory for Senegal.
Additional sanctions have been levied against multiple players from both finalists. Senegal forwards Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr received two-match bans for misconduct toward match officials, while Morocco’s Ismael Saibari was handed a three-game suspension. Defender Achraf Hakimi received a two-match ban, with one game suspended for twelve months. The Senegal Football Federation also faces a significant $615,000 fine.
These suspensions will apply exclusively to CAF-sanctioned matches, ensuring neither team’s preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America will be affected by these disciplinary actions.