FIFA President Gianni Infantino has criticized the behavior of Senegal players in the high-stake 2025 Africa Cup of Nation final against Morocco, urging a decisive action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The continental showpiece came to an end on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with Senegal emerging as the champions following a 1-0 victory over Morocco after extra-time at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Senegal coach, Pape Thiaw, sparked the controversy after ordering his players to walk off the pitch in protest against a penalty decision against his outfit, minutes after disallowing a goal for the Taranga Lions.
A section of the players adhered to the coach and left the field, leading to a several-minute stoppage amidst chaos.
But Sadio Mane demonstrated leadership, as he rallied his teammates to return to the pitch for the continuation of the match. Their return paid off, with Pape Gueye netting the match winner after Brahim Diaz had squandered a penalty kick.
The FIFA boss, who was displeased with the walk-off action by the Senegalese has called for a decisive action, highlighting the need to adhere to the laws of the game.
“We strongly condemn the behavior of some fans, as well as some Senegal players and members of the coaching staff. It is unacceptable to leave the pitch in this manner.”
“Just as violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is completely unacceptable. We must always respect the decisions of the referees on and off the field. Teams must compete on the field and within the rules of the game, because any failure to do so puts the essence of football at risk.”
“Teams and players also have a responsibility to act responsibly and set a good example for fans in stadiums and for millions of viewers around the world.”
“The regrettable scenes we witnessed must be condemned and never repeated. I have reaffirmed that they have no place in football, and I expect the competent disciplinary bodies of the Confederation of African Football to take appropriate and decisive action.”
Meanwhile, the continental football governing body has already opened investigation into the chaotic final, with disciplinary decisions expected in the coming days.
For the first time, Senegal has triumphed over the host nation after five previous attempts without a victory against the home team.
The Taranga Lions now hold the second-longest unbeaten run in the Africa Cup of Nations with 18 matches, after Egypt, who hold the record with 24 matches.
Meanwhile, the Atlas Lions has been absent from the podium in the Africa Cup of Nations for 50 years, since winning the title in 1976.
