The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a severe five-match suspension and a substantial $100,000 (£72,000) fine on Senegal manager Pape Thiaw following the dramatic and chaotic conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) final. Thiaw's unsporting conduct, which included ordering his players off the pitch late in the match, resulted in a significant 14-minute delay before Senegal ultimately secured victory.
Widespread Sanctions Issued After Final Disruption
In addition to the manager's punishment, the Senegalese football federation has been hit with a hefty $615,000 fine for its role in the incident. Two key players, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, have each received two-game suspensions for their unsporting behaviour towards the match officials during the contentious finale.
Morocco's Appeal Dismissed Amid Their Own Sanctions
CAF has firmly dismissed Morocco's formal bid to have the match result overturned, despite the significant disruption caused by Senegal's players leaving the field. The host nation itself has not escaped punishment, receiving fines totalling $315,000 for multiple infractions including improper ball boy conduct and the use of laser pointers by supporters against opposition players.
Moroccan players Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari have also been handed suspensions for their own unsporting behaviour during the match, adding to the comprehensive list of disciplinary actions taken by the governing body.
The controversial incident occurred when Thiaw instructed his team to leave the pitch following a highly disputed goal disallowance decision. This unprecedented move created one of the most dramatic moments in recent African football history, casting a shadow over what should have been a celebratory conclusion to the prestigious tournament.
