In Picture: CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe
Story by Zenzile Dlamini
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has condemned what it described as “unacceptable behaviour” by some players and officials during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal.
Tensions flared late in the match after referee Jean-Jacques Ngambo Ndala awarded Morocco a controversial penalty in the 95th minute. Earlier, Senegal had a goal ruled out in injury time, leading to protests from players. Some members of the Senegal squad briefly walked off the pitch, seemingly on the instruction of coach Pape Thiaw, before captain Sadio Mané persuaded them to return.
Morocco failed to convert the penalty after goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Díaz’s spot kick, forcing the match into extra time. Senegal went on to win the final after Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal.
In a statement, CAF said it will review match footage and take appropriate action against those found guilty. The football body stressed that it strongly condemns any inappropriate conduct during matches, especially actions directed at referees or match officials.
