The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (RMFF) has announced it will pursue legal action following the dramatic and controversial conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday. The match, which saw Senegal defeat hosts Morocco 1-0, was marred by a major incident where the Senegalese team staged a walk-off protest against a late penalty decision.
Controversy Mars Afcon Final Victory
The highly anticipated final took a shocking turn in the dying moments of regular time. With the score locked at 0-0, the match referee awarded a penalty to Morocco. This decision prompted an immediate and furious reaction from the Senegalese players and technical staff.
In an unprecedented move for a continental final, the Senegal national team abandoned the pitch in protest, leading to angry confrontations with match officials. The game was brought to a standstill for over 15 minutes as officials tried to restore order and convince the Senegalese team to return.
Penalty Miss and Extra-Time Decider
When play finally resumed, Moroccan star Brahim Diaz stepped up to take the crucial spot-kick. His attempted 'Panenka' chip was easily saved by Senegal's experienced goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, sending the match into extra time.
The decisive moment came in extra time when Pape Gueye scored the only goal of the game, securing the Afcon title for Senegal. However, their triumph was instantly overshadowed by the preceding controversy.
Legal Proceedings and Official Condemnation
The RMFF wasted no time in responding, confirming its intention to file a formal complaint with both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA. In a strongly worded statement, the federation declared the walk-off had a "significant impact on the normal course of the match and on the players' performance."
The federation stated it seeks a ruling on the "walk-off of the Senegalese national team from the field" and the surrounding events, despite maintaining the penalty decision was correct.
Both FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF have condemned the actions of the Senegalese team. Mr. Infantino labelled the scenes "unacceptable," stressing that leaving the pitch and any form of violence have no place in football. He emphasised that teams must always respect officials' decisions and compete within the Laws of the Game.
CAF has confirmed it is reviewing all footage and that disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against those involved in what it called "unacceptable behaviour." The fallout from this explosive final is set to continue long after the final whistle.
