In a shocking turn of events, the CAF Disciplinary Board rejected Morocco’s protest over Senegal’s violations of CAF regulations, despite Articles 82 and 84 explicitly sanctioning teams that abandon the pitch.
The chaotic AFCON 2025 final saw Senegalese fans attempting to storm the stadium, destroying seats and even using them as weapons against security personnel.
Amid the chaos, Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw encouraged his players to leave the pitch, forcing a tense standoff that lasted several minutes.
It was only after appeals from Sadio Mané, former players, and observers that the team returned to the field.
The interruptions disrupted Morocco’s rhythm and focus, ultimately derailing the Atlas Lions’ performance and costing them the chance to secure their second continental trophy in 50 years.
The CAF handed down sanctions that many Moroccans have seen as light, arguing that they were not fair. The sanctions, as quoted by CAF, include the suspension of Pape Bouna Thiaw, Head Coach of the Senegalese National Team, for five official CAF matches due to unsporting conduct, violating the CAF Disciplinary Code’s principles of fair play and integrity, and bringing the game into disrepute. He was also fined USD 100,000.
The sanctions also include the suspension of Senegalese National Team player Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye for two official CAF matches for unsporting behavior towards the referee, and the suspension of Senegalese National Team player Ismaila Sarr for two official CAF matches for unsporting behavior towards the referee.
