Senegal has been hit with heavy fines and suspensions by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their conduct in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final against Morocco.
Under the guidance of their coach, the Senegalese team temporarily walked off the pitch in protest of what they deemed unfair refereeing during the match. Later, encouraged by their teammate Sadio Mané, they returned to the field and played the remaining minutes, keeping alive their hopes of winning a second AFCON trophy.
The CAF Disciplinary Board cited multiple breaches of the CAF Disciplinary Code, including unsporting behaviour by players, technical staff, and supporters.
Major sanctions for Senegal
Head Coach Pape Bouna Thiaw was suspended for five official CAF matches and fined USD 100,000 for unsporting conduct that brought the game into disrepute.
Players Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were each suspended for two matches for misconduct towards the referee.
The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) was fined a total of USD 615,000, covering improper conduct by supporters (USD 300,000), unsporting behaviour by players and staff (USD 300,000), and multiple cautions received by five players (USD 15,000).
Morocco also faces penalties
Although the focus fell on Senegal, Morocco was not immune from sanctions.
Achraf Hakimi received a two-match suspension, with one match suspended for one year, while Ismaël Saibari was suspended for three matches and fined USD 100,000.
The Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF) was fined USD 315,000 for inappropriate conduct by ball boys, interference in VAR operations, and supporter misuse of lasers.
CAF also dismissed Morocco’s protest regarding alleged violations by Senegal, leaving the match result intact.
