CAF President Patrice Motsepe during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON CAF President Press Conference at Main Media Centre in Rabat, Morocco on 17 January 2026 ©Weam Mostafa/BackpagePix
Tuesday Jan 20, 2026. 13:00
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released a statement condemning the actions and behaviour of players and officials during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat on Sunday.
Chaos erupted in second half stoppage-time as Senegalese players left the pitch after Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review.
Before the VAR decision was announced, benched players and staff from both teams left their technical areas as arguments began to build. At certain points, both coaches left their technical areas and took to the pitch to confront referee Jean-Jacques Ndala.
In addition, Moroccan player Ismael Saibari, along with Moroccan ball-boys, attempted to steal Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy’s towel from behind the goal, though it was fiercely defended by reserve goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf.
What should have been a celebration to bring the continent together turned into a disgraceful showing which certainly brings the game on the continent into disrepute.
“The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night,” the statement reads.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers.
The governing body has opened an investigation into the incidents and will take disciplinary action against those found responsible.
“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”
By Nic Gleeson