Addis Ababa, January 19, 2026 (FMC) — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly condemned the conduct of some Senegal players, technical staff, and supporters during the closing stages of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final in Morocco, calling the scenes “unacceptable” and harmful to the sport’s integrity.
In a statement released Monday, Infantino acknowledged Senegal’s 1–0 victory over hosts Morocco, secured by a late extra-time goal from Pape Gueye, but said the behaviour that overshadowed the match must not be repeated.
The criticism followed chaotic incidents late in the game when a controversial penalty decision led to Senegal’s players walking off the pitch in protest, temporarily halting play. Infantino said the walk-off, as well as clashes involving some supporters in the stands, were “unacceptable” and should not occur in football.
“We also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands — we strongly condemn the behaviour of some supporters as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members,” Infantino said.
He stressed that teams must respect match officials and compete “within the Laws of the Game,” warning that any conduct undermining those principles threatens the core values of football.
CAF Confirms Review and Disciplinary Action
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also reacted to the incidents, condemning the “unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials” during the final in Rabat. CAF said such conduct, particularly actions directed against referees or match organisers, does not align with the spirit of the game.
CAF confirmed it is reviewing all available footage from the match and will refer the matter to its disciplinary bodies to take appropriate action against individuals found guilty of misconduct. The statement underlines the federation’s commitment to uphold discipline and fair play across African football.
The comments from FIFA and CAF come amid wider debate about discipline and sportsmanship as African football looks ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.