FIFA and CAF consider sanctioning Senegal over Africa Cup final incidents
FIFA and CAF consider sanctioning Senegal after temporary walk-off in AFCON final
FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have begun reviewing the incidents that occurred during the Africa Cup of Nations final, following Senegal’s temporary walk-off from the pitch in protest against a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
The actions of Senegal’s players and coaching staff sparked widespread controversy, as the team left the field for several minutes before returning to complete the match — a move many observers described as a violation of disciplinary regulations governing continental and international competitions.
FIFA and CAF stance
According to media reports, CAF has opened an official file to examine the circumstances of the incident, in coordination with FIFA, especially since the final was held under the direct supervision of both governing bodies.
Sources indicated that disciplinary regulations clearly outline penalties for any team that withdraws from a match or refuses to continue play, even if the withdrawal is temporary, placing Senegal at risk of potential sanctions.
Possible sanctions
Based on disciplinary rules, potential penalties could include:
Financial fines imposed on the Senegalese Football Federation
Individual suspensions for players or members of the technical staff
Official warnings or stricter sanctions in case of repeated violations
However, sources close to the case have ruled out overturning the match result or stripping Senegal of the title, suggesting that any punishment would likely be limited to disciplinary measures without affecting the championship outcome, given that Senegal eventually returned to the field and completed the match.
Ongoing debate
The incident has reignited discussions about the strict enforcement of regulations in finals, as well as the importance of preserving the image of African football tournaments amid increasing global attention.
CAF is expected to announce its final decision in the coming days, following a review of the referee’s report, the match commissioner’s observations, and official footage of the incident.
