Senegal triumphed in the Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco after turmoil ensued due to a late VAR penalty, as FIFA criticized the walk-off and called for respect towards officials.
The final of the Africa Cup of Nations erupted into mayhem on Sunday night — and FIFA president Gianni Infantino promptly intervened.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino Breaks Silence on AFCON Final Disorder
Infantino criticized what he described as “unacceptable scenes” after multiple Senegal players left the field in protest during the final moments of their AFCON victory over Morocco on Sunday, after a contentious late penalty was awarded.
“Infantino stated in a declaration that we firmly denounce the actions of certain fans along with some Senegalese players and members of the coaching staff.” “It is intolerable to exit the playing area in this way.” “Violence must not be accepted in our sport.”
The pivotal moment occurred late in injury time with the score tied at 0-0, as Morocco received a penalty following a VAR review for a foul on Brahim Diaz.
Angry Senegal players encircled officials before many of them exited the field in demonstration.
Only Sadio Mane, the former Liverpool star from Senegal, stayed on the field, encouraging his teammates to come back so the game could carry on. Senegalese frustration was already building after a goal at the opposite end was canceled moments earlier for what seemed to be a minor foul.
The incident spread to the stands, as certain Senegal supporters tried to reach the pitch and fought with security officials.
The game was paused for almost 20 minutes before Diaz eventually took the penalty: a feeble panenka that Edouard Mendy easily saved.
The conflict was far from finished. In the fourth minute of added time, Pape Gueye scored an impressive goal to secure a 1-0 win for Senegal — a momentous achievement marred by disputes.
In congratulating Morocco for “an incredible tournament” as both runners-up and hosts — considering their role as co-hosts for the 2030 World Cup — Infantino emphasized that teams must honor the decisions made by officials.
“We should consistently honor the choices made by match officials,” he stated. “Anything below this threatens the core of football itself.”
Infantino remarked that the visuals conveyed a misleading message to global fans and urged CAF’s disciplinary committees to intervene, emphasizing that such scenes “must not occur again.”
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