CAF Issues Suspensions to Four Players Following Chaotic AFCON Final
The Confederation of African Football has taken decisive disciplinary action in the aftermath of the turbulent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. Four prominent players from both finalist nations have received suspensions for their roles in the unsporting conduct that marred what should have been a celebratory conclusion to Africa's premier football tournament.
Moroccan Captain Among Those Sanctioned
Achraf Hakimi, the captain of Morocco's national team and Paris Saint-Germain defender, stands as the most high-profile player facing consequences from CAF's disciplinary committee. The governing body confirmed that Hakimi breached the Disciplinary Code through his conduct during the final minutes of the championship match. As team captain, his actions were judged more severely due to the leadership responsibilities expected from his position on the field.
The controversy centered around a disputed penalty decision awarded to Morocco that sparked intense protests from Senegal's players and technical staff. This led to an unprecedented standoff where players temporarily refused to continue playing, creating several minutes of disruption during the crucial closing stages of the continental final.
Additional Moroccan Player Faces Consequences
Moroccan midfielder Ismaël Saibari also received suspension and a substantial fine for his behavior during the tense final moments. CAF determined that Saibari engaged in deliberate provocation when he attempted to grab the towel of Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The governing body stated this action violated sporting ethics and contributed significantly to the disorder that followed the controversial penalty call.
With both Hakimi and Saibari now suspended from CAF competitions, Morocco faces significant challenges in their midfield and defensive options for upcoming international tournaments. These sanctions come despite Morocco's status as tournament hosts and their impressive run to the final.
Senegal's Premier League Stars Also Suspended
Senegal, despite ultimately lifting the AFCON trophy after a 1-0 victory in extra time, did not escape CAF's disciplinary measures. Premier League attackers Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr both received suspensions for unsporting behavior directed toward match officials during the final.
CAF emphasized that the pair crossed acceptable boundaries while protesting the penalty decision, with their actions forming part of a wider demonstration that saw Senegal players briefly leave the pitch. The governing body reiterated that behavior toward referees must be addressed through proper channels rather than through on-field confrontation or disruption of play.
Broader Implications for African Football
These suspensions serve as a clear warning to players across the continent that emotional reactions, regardless of match circumstances or intensity, will not be tolerated in CAF competitions. The disciplinary actions highlight the governing body's commitment to maintaining sporting integrity even in high-pressure tournament finals.
For Senegal, the bans represent a disappointing conclusion to an otherwise successful tournament where they captured their second AFCON title. The Teranga Lions' victory celebration has been somewhat overshadowed by the disciplinary fallout from the final's chaotic scenes.
The 2025 AFCON final will be remembered not only for Senegal's championship triumph but also for the unprecedented protests and subsequent sanctions that have sparked conversations about player conduct, referee decisions, and disciplinary standards in African football's most prestigious competition.
