Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, has condemned the conduct of Senegal players and members of their coaching staff following the chaotic conclusion to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) closing.
Infantino acknowledged that “violence and walk-offs don’t have any place in soccer” after the extremely contentious encounter, which noticed Senegal defeat hosts Morocco 1–0 in further time to raise their second AFCON title.
Learn Additionally: Senegal crowned AFCON 2025 champions
“Unacceptable Scenes” Regardless of Senegal’s Triumph
Whereas congratulating Senegal on their success, Infantino criticised the behaviour witnessed throughout the closing, each on and off the pitch.
“We additionally witnessed unacceptable scenes on the sphere and within the stands,” Infantino stated. “We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ in addition to some Senegalese gamers and technical workers members.
“It’s unacceptable to go away the sphere of play on this method, and equally, violence can’t be tolerated in our sport. It’s merely not proper.”
Learn Additionally: AFCON 2025: Full list of award winners
Respect for Match Officers Emphasised
Infantino, who was seen talking with Senegal captain Sadio Mané throughout the trophy presentation, careworn that groups should respect the authority of match officers.
“We should at all times respect the selections taken by the match officers on and off the sphere of play,” he added. “Something much less places the very essence of soccer in danger.”
Penalty Controversy Sparks Stroll-Off
The ultimate was marred by controversy after a disputed late penalty choice in favour of Morocco prompted Senegalese gamers to desert the pitch in protest, resulting in a short lived suspension of the match and indignant scenes involving match officers.
Following a delay of about 20 minutes, the Senegal gamers returned to the sphere. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz subsequently missed the penalty, together with his Panenka try comfortably saved by former Chelsea goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, pushing the sport into further time.
CAF Opens Evaluate
The Confederation of African Soccer (CAF) has since confirmed it’s reviewing footage of the incident, with disciplinary proceedings anticipated to comply with.
In an announcement, CAF stated it “condemns the unacceptable behaviour from some gamers and officers” and confirmed that every one related footage is being reviewed, with the matter to be referred to the suitable our bodies for additional motion in opposition to these discovered culpable.
