The Confédération Africaine de Soccer (CAF) has formally condemned the chaotic scenes that marred the AFCON 2025 remaining between Senegal and host nation Morocco, performed on Sunday, 18 January 2026, in Rabat.
The ultimate, which Senegal finally gained 1–0 after further time, was overshadowed by controversy following a dramatic incident in added time. The flashpoint got here within the 90+7 minute, when the referee awarded a penalty to Morocco. The choice sparked fast outrage from Senegal’s gamers and officers, who believed the decision was unjust, significantly after a Senegal aim moments earlier had been disallowed.
The state of affairs escalated into protests on the pitch, with gamers surrounding officers and heated exchanges briefly threatening the stream of the match.
In response, CAF launched an official assertion strongly condemning the occasions:
The Confédération Africaine de Soccer (“CAF”) condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some gamers and officers in the course of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Ultimate between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat final night time.
CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which happens throughout matches, particularly these focusing on the refereeing workforce or match organisers.
CAF is reviewing all footage and can refer the matter to competent our bodies for applicable motion to be taken in opposition to these discovered responsible.
Following the incident, sections of followers referred to as for Senegal to be stripped of the AFCON 2025 title. Nonetheless, Softfootball understands that such a measure is extremely unlikely, as Senegal didn’t abandon the match and finally continued play after preliminary protests.
Whereas the championship result’s anticipated to face, the result of CAF’s investigation might nonetheless result in vital fines or disciplinary sanctions in opposition to people discovered culpable.
CAF is anticipated to announce additional selections as soon as its assessment course of is accomplished, bringing remaining closure to one of the crucial controversial AFCON finals within the match’s historical past.
