The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has condemned the chaotic scenes that took place at the final of the 2025 AFCON in Rabat on Sunday, January 18.
Referee Jean Jacques Ndala gave the spot-kick in the 98th minute after being advised by the video assistant referee (VAR) to consult the pitchside monitor and review defender El Hadji Malick Diouf’s challenge on Brahim Diaz.
Pape Thiaw, incensed by Ndala’s decision moments earlier to disallow a Senegal goal, ushered his team off the field except for Sadio Mane, who remained during a 17-minute delay till running off to the changing room to bring back his teammates.
Here is CAF’s full statement on what ensued:
The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night.
CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behavior that occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers.
CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.
Senegal ended up beating Morocco to win the Africa Cup of Nations for a second time in the past ten years.
