BY Nadia Ntiamoah
The dramatic conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco has been overshadowed by controversy, after FIFA President Gianni Infantino publicly condemned the conduct of Senegalese players and sections of their supporters during the final against host nation Morocco.
Senegal clinched their second AFCON title with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Morocco in the final played in Rabat, with the decisive moment arriving in extra time through a brilliant strike by Pape Gueye.
The goal sealed Senegal’s place among Africa’s elite football nations, adding to the country’s growing reputation as a continental powerhouse following years of steady progress and recent international success.
However, the historic triumph was marred by tense scenes late in regulation time. With the match still goalless, the referee awarded Morocco a crucial penalty, a decision that sparked strong protests from Senegalese players and officials.
In an unprecedented move at such a high-profile stage, Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch in protest, threatening to abandon the final altogether.
The situation quickly escalated, with clashes breaking out in the stands involving some Senegalese supporters, further heightening tensions inside the stadium.
Calm was only restored after intervention from senior figures within the Senegal camp, notably veteran forward Sadio Mané, who reportedly persuaded his teammates to return to the field and complete the match.
Play eventually resumed, and Morocco were handed a golden opportunity to win the title when Brahim Díaz stepped up to take the penalty.
However, Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy produced a decisive save, denying the hosts and forcing the match into extra time.
That moment proved pivotal, as Senegal regrouped and went on to snatch victory through Gueye’s extra-time goal, breaking Moroccan hearts on home soil.
Despite witnessing Senegal lift the trophy, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was present at the final alongside CAF President Patrice Motsepe, expressed strong disapproval of the events that unfolded.
In comments reported by AFP, Infantino condemned both the pitch walkout and the crowd disturbances, stressing that such behaviour has no place in football.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members,” Infantino said.
“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.”
