Wa Ganyu

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has issued a statement condemning what it described as ‘unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials’ during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night.

At 96 minutes referee Jean Jacques Ndala from Democratic Republic of Congo awarded a last-gasp penalty decision to Morocco following the impediment of striker Brahim Diaz.

The decision disappointed Senegal coach Pape Thiaw and he told his players to leave the pitch as Morocco were about to take the penalty.

Despite officials pleading with players to go back in the field of play but it was not impossible.

After 22 minutes wait, Senegal player Sadio Mane went to the dressing room calling out players to go back in the field and it worked out.

However, Diaz gifted the The Lions of Teranga with a poor shot which went direct to goalkeeper Édouard Osoque Mendy forcing the match to be decided in extra time.

Three minutes into the first extra time, Pape Gueye scored a late goal securing a 1-0 win giving Senegal a second Afcon trophy.

CAF has since strongly condemned any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers.

“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty,” reads part of the statement.

Meanwhile Mane was voted player of the season, Morocco keeper Yassine Bounou was named goalkeeper of the tournament and Diaz is golden boot winner with five goals.