FIFA president condemns 'unacceptable' scenes in chaotic AFCON final

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued a powerful rebuke following the extraordinary and disruptive events that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0.

Infantino, who was present at the stadium in Rabat, declared the scenes "unacceptable" and a stain on the sport, condemning the actions of some Senegalese players, staff, and fans.

The president's criticism was directed at the chaotic sequence of events that unfolded in the dying moments of regular time. With the score at 0-0 and after having a goal controversially disallowed, Senegal's team was enraged when a penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review.

Incensed by the decision, head coach Pape Thiaw instructed his entire squad to leave the pitch in protest.

In an unprecedented move for a major international final, the Senegalese players walked off the field, disappearing down the tunnel for over ten minutes. This left veteran striker Sadio Mane as the only player on the pitch, who played a crucial role in convincing his teammates to return to the field and avoid a potential forfeit. The prolonged stoppage, lasting 14 to 16 minutes in total, caused a major disruption to the flow of the final.

When play finally resumed, the delay seemed to shatter the composure of Moroccan star Brahim Diaz. His attempted 'Panenka' penalty was a tame chip easily saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Senegal capitalised on this second chance, with Pape Gueye scoring a brilliant winner in extra time to secure the Lions of Teranga's second continental title.

Beyond the player walk-off, Infantino's statement also condemned reported violence involving some Senegal supporters in the stands. He stressed that such conduct cannot be tolerated in football and that CAF, the tournament's organiser, must take appropriate action.

The events have sparked widespread condemnation. Morocco's football federation has announced it will file legal complaints over the incident, while Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw has since apologised for the walk-off, admitting his team "shouldn't have done it". With Infantino's strong words and multiple federations lodging complaints, significant disciplinary sanctions against Senegal are now expected as the football world seeks to ensure such a dramatic breach of sporting conduct is not repeated.