FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned “some Senegal players” for the “unacceptable scenes” during Sunday’s AFCON final in which the eventual champions walked off the pitch in protest at a penalty awarded to Morocco.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner,” said Infantino in a statement sent to AFP.
AFCON 2025 Final Chaos
The stadium erupted in chaos after a spot kick was awarded to the Atlas Lions of Morocco in second-half stoppage time, following a lengthy VAR check for a challenge on Brahmin Diaz by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf.
Diaz led the protests following that incident, vehemently calling for a penalty to be given as the Moroccan bench joined in. After the referee ruled in Morocco’s favour, the Senegal camp was infuriated because Senegal had a goal ruled out minutes earlier and fighting also broke out in the stands.
Play was halted for about 20 minutes, and Senegal’s players walked off the pitch. They would however return to the pitch with Brahim Diaz missing the eventual penalty and Senegal getting a goal in extra time to win the game.
