FIFA Steps Into Senegal AFCON 2025 Final Controversy Ahead of CAF Decision
In a significant development in African football, FIFA has reportedly sent an official message to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as the continental body prepares to deliver its verdict on the controversial incidents that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. The match, held in Morocco, saw Senegal temporarily walk off the pitch in protest during the closing moments of regulation time.
The Chaotic Final Moments in Morocco
The AFCON 2025 final descended into unprecedented drama when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty to Morocco in the final seconds of the 90-minute period. This controversial decision sparked immediate outrage from Senegal's technical area, with head coach Pape Thiaw taking the extraordinary step of ordering his players to leave the pitch and return to the dressing room.
The match was suspended for approximately 17 minutes as tensions ran high. The situation was only resolved when veteran forward Sadio Mane intervened personally, urging his teammates to return to the field and complete the match. Following the resumption, Brahim Diaz missed the crucial penalty, sending the game into extra time where Pape Gueye scored the winning goal to secure Senegal's second AFCON trophy.
CAF's Investigation and FIFA's Intervention
CAF responded swiftly to the incident, publishing an official statement condemning what it described as "unacceptable behaviour" and immediately launching a comprehensive investigation. The African football body's Ethics and Disciplinary Committee convened on Tuesday for hearings into the matter and was expected to deliver its verdict shortly.
According to reports from Senegalese journalist Mamadou Ndiaye, FIFA has informed CAF that Senegal will face no international sanctions for the incident, clarifying that any punishment delivered will remain within Africa's jurisdiction. This communication comes amid widespread speculation that Senegal could potentially face exclusion from the 2026 FIFA World Cup over the controversy, particularly with coach Pape Thiaw expected to receive substantial disciplinary measures.
Key Figures Weigh In on the Controversy
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was present at the final in Morocco, described the incident as "unfortunate scenes" and urged relevant football authorities to take decisive action. His comments came as CAF continues its questioning process, scheduling virtual interviews with all parties involved before delivering its final verdict in the coming days.
The investigation focuses particularly on the actions of coach Pape Thiaw, who is anticipated to face significant sanctions for his role in ordering the walkout. The case has drawn international attention as it represents one of the most dramatic incidents in recent African football history, testing the disciplinary frameworks of both continental and global football governing bodies.
As the football world awaits CAF's final decision, the intervention from FIFA establishes important parameters for the case, ensuring that while disciplinary measures may be imposed, they will remain within the African football context rather than escalating to global sanctions that could affect Senegal's participation in international competitions.
