‘The ugly scenes...’: Infantino slams Senegal chaos at AFCON final

Rabat, Morocco: FIFA president Gianni Infantino has described Senegal leaving the field in protest before winning the Africa Cup of Nations title as “unacceptable,” calling the chaotic end to Sunday’s final against host nation Morocco astonishing for an international competition.

Infantino criticised Senegal’s coaches, players, and some fans for their behaviour at the conclusion of regulation time. Posting on his Instagram account after attending the match, he wrote:

“The ugly scenes witnessed (Sunday) must be condemned and never repeated.”

He added, “I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF (the Confederation of African Football) will take the appropriate measures.”

CAF also condemned the incidents as unacceptable and said it is “reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”

Controversial ending sparks chaos

The turmoil unfolded after Senegal felt it was denied a potential title-winning goal early in stoppage time during a 0-0 draw, when the referee ruled out the goal for a foul. Minutes later, Morocco was awarded a penalty following a video review, which judged star forward Brahim Diaz had been pulled down by a Senegal defender during a corner.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw encouraged his players to leave the field, preventing Diaz from taking the penalty and forcing a nearly 15-minute stoppage. Senegal fans clashed with police at the other end of the stadium, escalating tensions further.

Infantino emphasised that, “It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport. It is simply not right.”

“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”

Morocco coach Walid Regragui described the incidents as a “shameful” image of African soccer for the world to see.

Drama in Stoppage Time

When play resumed, Brahim Diaz took a penalty in the 24th minute of stoppage time. His slow Panenka-style shot, a delicate chip named after the Czech player who famously used it decades ago, was weak and easily saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.

The match went into extra time, and Senegal secured the title just four minutes in with a powerful strike from Pape Gueye.

Infantino concluded his statement by congratulating Senegal and calling for responsibility from teams and players:

“My best wishes as well to Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Association, and to everyone involved in this success.”

“It is also the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world.”