Senegal manager Pape Thiaw faces a potential touchline ban at the World Cup after ordering his players to walk off the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco. The chaotic scenes occurred after Morocco were awarded a controversial penalty in the 98th minute, shortly after Senegal had a goal disallowed.
Most of Thiaw's players complied and left the field, leading to a 17-minute delay. Riot police were deployed to prevent angry Senegalese fans from invading the pitch. Morocco's Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and Senegal went on to win 1-0 in extra time through Pape Gueye's strike, securing their second AFCON title.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the 'unacceptable' behaviour, calling for disciplinary action from CAF. The African football federation also issued a statement condemning the actions of some players and officials, vowing to refer the matter to competent bodies.
Thiaw later expressed regret, saying: 'I don't want to dwell on the events of the match. In hindsight, I really shouldn't have told my players to come off. I apologise for the sake of football.' He admitted reacting in the heat of the moment but accepted the referee's mistakes.
Because Senegal's next competitive fixture is the World Cup in North America, any suspension would be served at the tournament. Senegal face France in their opening group game in New York, followed by Norway and a play-off winner.
