2025 AFCON: Senegal Face CAF disciplinary hearing after finals drama

The Senegalese Football Federation has confirmed that an official delegation has appeared before the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Disciplinary Committee, as investigations continue into the dramatic and controversial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, January 27, the federation said the hearing followed reports from match officials and formal complaints submitted by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation over the conduct of some Senegalese players and officials during the final.

Senegal’s delegation was led by the federation’s Secretary General and legal adviser, Seydou Diagne, who presented the country’s case before the disciplinary body. The federation added that its coach, Pape Thiaw, along with players Ismaila Sarr and Elman Ndiaye, were invited to give their versions of events and defend their actions.

CAF’s Disciplinary Committee has since reserved the case for deliberation, with a final decision expected within 48 hours. Senegal said it remains committed to respecting CAF’s procedures and the legal framework governing African football.

The investigation stems from one of the most dramatic finals in AFCON history. Senegal went on to lift their second continental title after a 1-0 victory over host nation Morocco, but the match was marred by controversy, protests and lengthy stoppages.

As the game edged towards full-time, Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala disallowed what appeared to be a Senegalese goal, penalising Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi for a foul in the build-up. Moments later, following a VAR review, Morocco were awarded a penalty for an obstruction on Brahim Diaz.

The decisions triggered angry reactions from Senegal’s bench and players. In the heat of the moment, Pape Thiaw was seen urging his players to leave the pitch in protest. Tensions spilled into the stands, with some Senegalese supporters clashing with security and causing damage inside the stadium.

Play was halted for several minutes after Senegal’s players walked off, before Sadio Mané intervened to persuade his teammates to return and continue the match.

When play resumed, Diaz attempted a delicate “Panenka” penalty, but goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved comfortably. The referee immediately signalled full-time, sending the match into extra time.

Senegal finally found the breakthrough in the 94th minute, when Pape Gueye struck the winning goal to seal a famous triumph for the Lions of Teranga.

In the aftermath, the Moroccan Football Federation formally asked CAF to impose sanctions on Senegal, citing the temporary walk-off and disturbances involving supporters.

CAF’s disciplinary process is still ongoing, with both Senegal and Morocco now awaiting a ruling that could carry significant consequences following a final that will be remembered as much for its chaos as for its football.