AFCON 2025 Final Chaos: CAF Slaps Heavy Sanctions on Senegal, Morocco

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has issued severe penalties against Senegal and Morocco following the chaotic TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final on January 18, 2026, at Stade Mohammed V in Rabat.  Senegal clinched their second title with a 1-0 extra-time win via Papa Gueye’s goal, but the match descended into controversy with a late VAR penalty for Morocco, a Senegalese walk-off protest, fan clashes, and post-match disorder.  Morocco’s protest to strip Senegal of the trophy was rejected, upholding the Lions of Teranga’s victory. 

Match Disruptions

Tensions peaked in stoppage time when Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr goal was disallowed, followed by a VAR-awarded penalty to Morocco after a foul on Brahim Diaz; Édouard Mendy saved it to force extra time.  Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw led a 15-17 minute pitch walk-off in protest, delaying play amid security interventions and supporter unrest.  Morocco players invaded the VAR area, ball boys misbehaved, and lasers from fans targeted players, breaching CAF’s fair play code. 

Sanctions on Senegal

The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) faces $615,000 in total fines: $300,000 for fan misconduct, $300,000 for player/staff unsporting behavior, and $15,000 for five yellow cards.  Coach Pape Bouna Thiaw gets a five-match CAF ban and $100,000 fine for disrepute; players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr each suspended two matches for referee abuse. 

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Sanctions on Morocco

The Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) incurs $315,000-$415,000 in fines: $200,000 for ball boys, $100,000 for VAR invasion, $15,000 for lasers.  Achraf Hakimi faces a two-match ban (one probationary for a year); Ismaël Saibari gets three matches plus $100,000 fine. 

Future Impact

These record sanctions, among the heaviest in African football, allow appeals but signal CAF’s zero-tolerance for integrity breaches.  Senegal’s title stands, yet absences like Thiaw’s will challenge defenses; Morocco endures hosting scrutiny.