FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly criticised the actions of Senegal players who briefly walked off the pitch during the dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco, describing the scenes as “utterly unacceptable” and a threat to the values of football.

The incident occurred late in Sunday night’s final in Rabat, when Senegalese players protested a penalty awarded to hosts Morocco following a VAR review. The stoppage added to the tension of an already chaotic contest, which Senegal eventually won 1–0 in extra time to lift their second AFCON title.

Reacting to the scenes, Infantino did not hold back in his assessment.

“I strongly condemn the actions of the Senegalese national team; what occurred is considered utterly unacceptable behaviour,” he said.

“The unfortunate scenes we witnessed must be condemned and should never be repeated.”

The FIFA president stressed that leaving the field of play in protest crossed a clear line, regardless of the pressure and emotions that accompany major finals.

“Leaving the field of play in such a manner is unacceptable, and violence cannot be tolerated in football, it is completely rejected,” Infantino added.

He also underlined the importance of respecting match officials, particularly in high-stakes games where decisions are scrutinised intensely.

“Refereeing decisions must be respected both on and off the pitch, and teams must adhere to the laws of the game, as any other behaviour threatens the very essence of football itself,” he said.

The AFCON final was already one of the most dramatic in recent memory. Morocco were awarded a late penalty in stoppage time, but Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved Brahim Díaz’s audacious Panenka attempt. Moments later, Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in extra time to seal victory for the Lions of Teranga.

Infantino’s comments come a day after CAF also issued a statement condemning inappropriate conduct during the final and confirming that disciplinary processes are under way.

While Senegal celebrated continental glory on the pitch, the controversy surrounding the penalty protest has sparked wider debate about discipline, respect for officials and the pressures facing players on African football’s biggest stage.