CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has made it clear that he fully respects and will adhere to every decision of the CAF Disciplinary Board following the chaotic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco.
The highly anticipated final between Senegal and hosts Morocco descended into controversy when a late penalty was awarded to Morocco. Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players to stage a walk-off in protest, leaving the match paused for over ten minutes until captain Sadio Mane convinced his teammates to return and complete the game.
In response, the CAF Disciplinary Committee imposed sanctions on both the Moroccan and Senegalese football federations, as well as on players and officials found to have breached competition rules.
Speaking in a media statement, Motsepe described the incidents as unacceptable.
“I was extremely disappointed with the unacceptable incidents that took place at the Finals of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025,” he said.
He stressed that CAF’s judicial decisions would be fully respected and followed.
“I have taken note of the decision of the CAF Disciplinary Board, which was announced on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, and I respect and will adhere to every decision of our CAF Judicial Bodies,” Motsepe added.
Motsepe also reaffirmed the CAF Executive Committee’s and member associations’ commitment to protecting the integrity and global competitiveness of African football.
“We are absolutely determined to maintain and advance the integrity, reputation and global competitiveness of African Football and CAF Competitions,” he said.
With these statements, CAF has signalled its determination to uphold accountability and preserve the credibility of African football, even in the wake of one of the continent’s most controversial finals.
