FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly condemned the chaotic scenes that overshadowed Senegal’s dramatic victory over Morocco in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, describing the behaviour of some players, officials and supporters as completely unacceptable.
Sunday night’s highly anticipated final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat ended in controversy despite Senegal’s 1–0 extra-time triumph over the host nation. The winning goal came from a brilliant long-range strike by Pape Gueye, sealing Senegal’s second AFCON title.
However, the historic victory was marred by disorder late in the match following a contentious refereeing decision.
In a reaction sent to AFP, Infantino criticised the conduct that followed the award of a late penalty to Morocco, which sparked protests from Senegalese players and officials.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner,” Infantino said.
“Violence cannot be tolerated in our sport; it is simply not right.”
The match was finely poised at 0–0 late in normal time when Morocco were awarded a penalty after a VAR review of a challenge involving Senegal defender Moussa Diouf and Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz.
The decision provoked furious reactions from Senegal’s bench and players, many of whom walked off the pitch in protest, causing a lengthy interruption.
Tensions also spilled into the stands, where some Senegalese fans attempted to invade the pitch and clashed with security personnel.
Only Senegal captain Sadio Mane remained on the field, pleading with his teammates to return and allow the match to continue.
Before the incident, Senegal had already felt hard done by after a goal was ruled out for a perceived foul in the buildup – a decision many considered harsh.
After nearly 20 minutes of delay, the match finally resumed. Díaz stepped up to take the controversial penalty but saw his attempted ‘Panenka’ comfortably saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
That moment proved decisive.
In extra time, Senegal seized the momentum as Pape Gueye unleashed a powerful strike in the fourth minute, handing the Teranga Lions victory and their second AFCON crown following their maiden success in 2021.
Despite Senegal’s celebrations, Infantino warned that the scenes in Rabat must not be repeated, stressing the importance of respecting match officials and the rules of the game.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play,” he said.
“Teams must compete within the Laws of the Game because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”
The FIFA president also expressed concern over the global image of football, particularly with major international tournaments approaching.
“It is the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world,” Infantino added.
While Senegal will celebrate their hard-fought victory, the events in Rabat have reignited conversations about discipline, sportsmanship, and the need to protect the integrity of African football.
