FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the conduct of Senegalese players and supporters during the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, describing their actions as “unacceptable.” Senegal briefly walked off the pitch during their 1–0 victory over host nation Morocco in Rabat after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review for a foul on Brahim Diaz.
The protest, involving players and coaching staff, lasted nearly 20 minutes before play resumed, while tempers also flared in the stands as angry fans confronted stewards and issued threats to cause damage to the stadium.
In an Instagram post on Monday, Infantino said Senegal’s decision to abandon the field was not in line with the spirit or laws of the game and confirmed that disciplinary measures would follow. “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,” he wrote. “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 added that CAF would take appropriate action, stressing, “We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play.”
Despite the controversy, Senegal went on to secure their second AFCON title after Brahim Diaz missed the penalty and Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal.