Olivier Safari, head of the Referee Committee at the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has addressed the controversy surrounding the “towel incident” that unfolded during the Africa Cup of Nations final between hosts Morocco and Senegal.
The drama erupted when a towel belonging to Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was placed near the goal area, prompting Moroccan players and stewards to intervene and remove it.
The move sparked tension between the two sides, with the situation briefly disrupting the match.
Speaking to Canal+ Sport Afrique, Safari explained the reasoning behind the intervention, stating that the towel posed a potential influence on the flow of the game.
“The towel should be kept away from the goalkeeper, as it may affect the course of the game.”
“The towel is not any player’s equipment, and if any controversy arises on the field, I think it should be removed, because these items may have a direct or indirect impact.”
He further warned that using such items inside the stadium could be viewed as unsporting behaviour or an attempt to sway the match.
“Using a towel inside the stadium is considered unacceptable behaviour and may be interpreted as an attempt to influence the course of the match.”
Senegal ultimately secured the AFCON title after Pape Gueye delivered a decisive strike in extra time, following a missed penalty by Morocco’s Brahim Diaz during regulation time.
