AFCON 2025: FIFA President Infantino Condemns Senegal’s Pitch Walk-Off in Dramatic Final Victory Over Morocco

In one of the most chaotic finals in Africa Cup of Nations history, Senegal clinched their second continental title with a hard-fought 1-0 extra-time win over hosts Morocco on Sunday evening in Rabat. However, the match was overshadowed by ugly scenes when Senegalese players, led by their coach Pape Thiaw, stormed off the pitch in protest against a controversial late penalty awarded to the Atlas Lions.

The incident occurred deep into stoppage time, with the score locked at 0-0. Referee Jean Jacques Ndala, after consulting VAR, pointed to the spot for a foul by Senegal’s El Hadji Malick Diouf on Morocco’s Brahim Diaz. In response, Thiaw instructed his players—including stars like Sadio Mane and Edouard Mendy—to leave the field and head to the dressing room, sparking pandemonium. Some Senegalese supporters in the stands also attempted to invade the pitch, throwing objects and escalating tensions.

The game was halted for approximately 17 minutes before the Teranga Lions returned, allowing Diaz to take his penalty—a cheeky Panenka attempt that was comfortably saved by Mendy.

The drama didn’t end there. In the first half of extra time, midfielder Pape Gueye unleashed a thunderous strike into the top corner in the 94th minute, securing the victory for Senegal and sending the Moroccan crowd into stunned silence. This triumph marks Senegal’s second AFCON title, following their 2021 win, and comes despite the hosts’ strong tournament run as favorites on home soil.

Nigeria, meanwhile, claimed the bronze medal earlier in the tournament, adding to Africa’s vibrant football narrative.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino wasted no time in addressing the controversy, issuing a stern statement condemning the behavior. “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, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right,” Infantino said. “We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”

He emphasized the responsibility of teams and players to set a positive example for fans worldwide, adding, “The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated. I reiterate that they have no place in football and I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF will take the appropriate measures.”

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw later expressed regret over his actions. “I didn’t appreciate at all that I told my players to leave the field. I apologise for that. After reflection, I told them to come back. Sometimes, you can react in the heat of the moment, but we accept the referee’s mistakes. We offer apologies for football,” Thiaw admitted in a post-match interview.

Morocco’s coach Walid Regragui was more critical, highlighting the damage to African football’s image. “The image we gave of Africa today, it’s a bit shameful. When a coach asks his players to leave the pitch. What Pape Thiaw did tonight does not honour Africa. It’s not classy, but it’s not a big deal. He’s African champion so he has the right to say whatever he wants,” Regragui stated.

The fallout from the match has sparked debates across the continent, with some calling for Senegal to face sanctions, including potential disqualification or stripping of the title—though experts believe that’s unlikely given the game’s completion. CAF is expected to review the incident in the coming days.

Despite the heartbreak for Morocco, the North African nation can look forward to brighter horizons. Alongside Spain and Portugal, Morocco will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, a historic milestone that promises to showcase African hospitality and infrastructure on the global stage.