CAF Launches Investigation After Chaotic AFCON Final in Rabat- Ekohotblog

CAF Launches Investigation After Chaotic AFCON Final in Rabat
VAR decisions triggered walk off threat and fan unrest.
Sanctions may follow after footage review.

The Confederation of African Football has opened an investigation into the conduct of players and officials following the turbulent conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and host nation Morocco in Rabat.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the AFCON 2025 title clash on Sunday was intensely fought but largely controlled until the closing moments of normal time, when two controversial decisions involving Senegal sparked chaos on and off the pitch.

Senegal were first left aggrieved after a goal by Ismaila Sarr was disallowed. Minutes later, Morocco were awarded a penalty after Brahim Díaz went down in the box, a decision that stood following a VAR review. The ruling provoked angry reactions from Senegal players, officials and supporters inside the stadium.

As tempers flared, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw appeared to signal his players to walk off the pitch in protest. The team briefly retreated into the tunnel before captain Sadio Mané intervened, persuading his teammates to return to the field. The interruption lasted about 17 minutes, with security forces deployed to restore order in the stands.

Morocco failed to capitalise on the penalty as Díaz saw his effort saved, forcing the match into extra time. Senegal eventually sealed a 1–0 victory when Pape Gueye scored the winning goal, but the earlier controversy overshadowed the historic triumph.

In a statement, CAF condemned the incidents, describing the behaviour of some players and officials as unacceptable. The football body said it is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to relevant disciplinary bodies.

CAF Launches Investigation After Chaotic AFCON Final in Rabat

The tension spilled into Senegal’s post match press conference, which was abruptly abandoned following heated exchanges. CAF’s probe will examine actions on the pitch, technical areas and among supporters, with possible sanctions expected.