Senegal’s African Cup of Nations Victory Marred by “Unacceptable” Player Protest, FIFA President Declares
Senegal’s dramatic victory in the African Cup of Nations was overshadowed by what FIFA President Gianni Infantino has labeled “unacceptable” behavior from the Senegalese team, coaching staff, and supporters, following a chaotic match against host nation Morocco in Rabat on Sunday.
The controversy unfolded as Senegal protested refereeing decisions, even walking off the field at one point, before ultimately winning the title in extra time. Infantino, speaking on Monday, condemned the scenes as something “astonishing for the final of an international competition.”
“The unpleasant scenes witnessed must be condemned and never repeated,” Infantino posted on his Instagram account after attending the match. He expressed hope that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) disciplinary bodies would “take appropriate measures.” The CAF echoed this sentiment, stating it is “reviewing all recordings and will refer the matter to the relevant agencies for appropriate action to be taken against the culprits.”
At the heart of the dispute was a disallowed goal for Senegal early in injury time of a 0-0 draw, whistled for a foul. Moments later, a penalty was awarded to Morocco after a video review determined a Senegal defender had fouled Brahim Diaz while taking a corner. This decision ignited fury among the Senegalese team and fans, who felt Morocco was receiving preferential treatment throughout the tournament, which served as a showcase for the co-hosting of the 2034 World Cup.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw took the drastic step of leading his players off the field to prevent Diaz from taking the penalty, halting play for nearly 15 minutes. The repercussions for Thiaw could be severe, with potential sanctions impacting his ability to coach in future African competitions or even the FIFA World Cup in North America. Senegal is slated to make its World Cup debut against France on June 16 at MetLife Stadium near New York, followed by a match against Norway six days later.
Adding to the turmoil, clashes erupted between Senegal fans and police at the stadium. “It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this way, and likewise, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport. It is simply not right,” Infantino emphasized. “We must always respect the decisions made by match officials on and off the field of play,” he added, stressing that teams must “compete on the field and within the Rules 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 football.
The match resumed, and despite the contentious penalty – which saw Real Madrid’s Diaz attempt a Panenka chip that was easily saved by Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy – the game went to extra time. Senegal ultimately secured the victory with a goal from Pape Gueye four minutes into the extra period.
Infantino extended his congratulations to Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Association, and all those involved in Senegal’s success. He concluded by stressing, “It is also the responsibility of the teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for the fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world.”
