FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly criticized Senegalese players for abandoning the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco, calling their actions “unacceptable” and warning that such conduct has no place in football.
In a statement to AFP, Infantino said: “We strongly condemn the behaviour of some Senegalese players, staff, and supporters. Leaving the field in protest is completely unacceptable. Violence and disrespect have no place in our sport.”
The AFCON final, which ended in a dramatic 1-0 victory for Senegal, was overshadowed by the incident. With the match tied 0-0 deep into injury time, Morocco was awarded a penalty after a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Diaz. Frustrated by a previously disallowed goal, several Senegalese players left the pitch in protest.
Notably, former Liverpool star Sadio Mane remained behind, urging his teammates to return and take part in the penalty. Meanwhile, tensions escalated in the stands as some Senegalese fans attempted to storm the pitch, clashing with security personnel.
The delay lasted nearly 20 minutes before Diaz took a weak ‘panenka’ penalty, which Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved. Pape Gueye later scored in the fourth minute of extra time, sealing Morocco’s win.
Infantino praised Morocco for their performance and hosting, noting that such professionalism is a positive signal as the country prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. He emphasized the importance of respecting referees’ decisions: “Teams must compete within the Laws of the Game. Anything less undermines football itself.”
Highlighting the global impact of players’ actions, Infantino added: “Players and teams have a responsibility to set the right example for fans both in stadiums and watching worldwide. The scenes from Sunday are unacceptable and must never be repeated. We expect CAF’s disciplinary bodies to take appropriate measures.”
AFP