CAF Slams Unacceptable Conduct by Players and Officials at AFCON 2025 Final

Sports Updated: 19 January 2026 21:10 EAT

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has strongly denounced inappropriate behaviour shown by certain players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final played between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat on January 18, 2026.

The final, which Senegal won 1-0 in extra time, was marred by a series of controversial incidents that culminated in a temporary protest walk-off by Senegal’s players following a late match decision.

In its official statement, CAF emphasised its rejection of misconduct, stating, “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. CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers.”

CAF has confirmed it is conducting a detailed review of all match footage and will forward its findings to relevant disciplinary bodies. It further noted that “appropriate action” will be taken against individuals found to have breached conduct standards.

The events in Rabat drew criticism from various stakeholders, including Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, who described the conduct on the sidelines as damaging to African football’s reputation.

On his part, FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned "some Senegal players" for the "unacceptable scenes" which overshadowed their victory in Sunday's Africa Cup of Nations final when they walked off the pitch in protest at a penalty awarded to Morocco.

''We strongly condemn the behaviour of some 'supporters' as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members," Infantino said in a statement sent to AFP media.

"It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right."

Infantino praised Morocco for a fantastic hosting, a boost for the North African nation in what was effectively a dress rehearsal for their co-hosting of the men's 2030 World Cup.