Paul Bassène handed five-game ban after controversial celebration

RS Berkane striker Paul Valère Bassène has been handed a five-match suspension and fined 300,000 dirhams following a disciplinary ruling over his conduct during a Botola Pro match against Raja Casablanca.

The decision was confirmed by the Disciplinary Commission of the National Professional Football League (LNFP) after reviewing the incident that occurred during the 22nd round fixture.

Bassène, who scored the only goal in Berkane’s 1-0 victory, was sanctioned after celebrating in a manner officials deemed to be obscene.

The incident was reviewed with the assistance of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), after which the match referee issued a straight red card to the player.

Following a formal review of the case, the disciplinary body opted for a significant punishment, both sporting and financial, reflecting the seriousness with which the behaviour was assessed.

The five-match ban represents a major setback for RS Berkane, with Bassène expected to miss several key fixtures during the remainder of the season.

His absence will leave the club without one of its primary attacking options at a crucial stage of their campaign.

The ruling underscores the league’s strict stance on player conduct, particularly in high-profile matches such as the encounter between RS Berkane and Raja Casablanca, one of the most closely followed fixtures in Moroccan football.

While Bassène’s goal proved decisive in securing victory on the pitch, the aftermath of the match has been dominated by the disciplinary outcome, which now leaves both player and club facing the consequences of the incident.