Senegal and Morocco are at risk of disciplinary action after the African Cup of Nations final descended into chaos, with players walking off the pitch and clashes involving a towel. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) condemned 'unacceptable behaviour' from some players and officials during the match in Rabat.
The final was marred by controversy when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a soft stoppage-time penalty following a VAR decision for a minor tug on Brahim Diaz. Senegal fans attempted to storm the pitch in fury, and coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players to leave the field, refusing to allow the penalty to be taken. The delay lasted 17 minutes before play resumed.
Earlier, Senegal had a goal disallowed after Idrissa Gana Gueye was penalised for competing for a header. Tempers flared on the touchline, with players from both benches nearly coming to blows. Diaz ultimately missed the penalty, and Senegal won 1-0 in extra time through a goal by Pape Gueye.
Post-match, Thiaw abandoned his press conference amid boos from Moroccan journalists. Footage also emerged of Senegal's reserve goalkeeper being wrestled to the ground while protecting teammate Edouard Mendy's towel during the match. CAF is reviewing footage and will refer matters to disciplinary bodies. FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the 'ugly scenes' and called for action against Senegal.
