Controversy Mars AFCON Final as Senegal Faces Consequences

omidbasir- In a dramatic turn of events during the AFCON final at The Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium earlier this month, Senegal’s hope for a last-minute victory through Abdoulaye Seck was dashed when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala disallowed the goal. Shortly thereafter, he awarded Morocco a controversial penalty, prompting an outraged Senegalese coach, Thiaw, to call his players to the changing rooms in protest.

Following a 15-minute suspension of play, Real Madrid’s Diaz had his Panenka penalty saved, but Pape Gueye ultimately scored a remarkable winner in extra time, clinching the AFCON title for Morocco.

In the aftermath, FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the events, labeling them “unacceptable.” He stated, “We witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands. We strongly condemn the behavior of some supporters and certain members of the Senegalese team. Leaving the field in such a manner is intolerable, and violence has no place in our sport.”

As reported by the Daily Mail, coach Thiaw has been suspended for five matches and fined £72,000 for his unsporting conduct, while the Senegalese Football Association has incurred a fine of £445,000 due to the actions of fans and players. Additionally, Everton’s Illiman Ndiaye and Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr received two-match bans, and Morocco faces a £228,000 penalty for the misconduct of their ball boys and players, including attempts to distract Senegal’s goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, with laser pens.

Players Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari of Morocco also received bans—Hakimi for two matches (with one suspended for a year) and Saibari for three matches, along with a £72,000 fine, due to their interference with the Senegal goalkeeper’s towel.

Amid the turmoil, former Liverpool star Sadio Mane was commended for his efforts to prevent his teammates from leaving the field, ultimately guiding them back to continue the match. Mane remarked, “Referees can make mistakes like anyone else. It’s crucial to respect the game and not halt play over such incidents.”

Looking ahead, both Senegal and Morocco are set to compete in the upcoming World Cup in North America. Morocco will face Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland in Group C, while Senegal is placed in Group I alongside 2018 champions France and Norway, with an additional team yet to be determined. However, due to his suspension, Coach Thiaw may miss a significant portion of the tournament.