FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued a stern rebuke following the controversy that marred the 2025 AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco. The backlash follows a heated protest by the Senegalese side over a critical refereeing decision late in the match.
The Flashpoint in Rabat The turmoil began in stoppage time when a disputed VAR review awarded Morocco a last-minute penalty. This sparked immediate outrage from the Senegalese camp, who were already frustrated after seeing an earlier goal disallowed.
In an unprecedented move, Senegal’s players briefly abandoned the pitch under instruction from coach Pape Thiaw. The walk-off led to a 15-minute delay and triggered unrest in the stands, requiring security forces to intervene before the game – which Senegal eventually won 1–0 in extra time – could resume.
What did FIFA president say concerning 2025 AFCON Final Chaos?
Infantino’s Call for Discipline Responding to the incident, Infantino labeled the scenes “unacceptable” and a violation of the spirit of the game. He emphasized that regardless of the stakes, respect for match officials is non-negotiable.
The FIFA chief specifically condemned the walk-off as a damaging precedent for football’s global image and urged CAF to take formal disciplinary action. He stressed that the integrity of the sport depends on maintaining discipline and following established protocols for grievances.
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