CAF Condemns Misconduct After Chaotic AFCON 2025 Final in Rabat

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has strongly condemned what it described as unacceptable conduct by some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final between hosts Morocco and Senegal.

In a statement issued on 19 January 2026, CAF said it would not tolerate inappropriate behaviour during matches, particularly actions directed at match officials and organisers.

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers,” the statement read.

The continental governing body confirmed that it is reviewing all available video footage from the final and will forward its findings to the relevant disciplinary bodies. Appropriate sanctions will be imposed on any individuals found to have breached CAF regulations.

The high profile final, played in Rabat on Sunday night, was overshadowed by disorderly scenes following a series of contentious on field decisions. Tensions reached a peak late in the match when a penalty was awarded to Morocco in stoppage time, prompting Senegal’s players to briefly walk off the pitch in protest.

After several minutes of delay, the match resumed. With the score still goalless at the end of normal time, Senegal eventually secured a 1-0 victory in extra time to lift the trophy.

Although CAF did not name specific individuals in its statement, the strong wording reflects its broader commitment to enforcing discipline and respect within African football. The body stressed that misconduct, whether on or off the pitch, will be met with firm action.

The ongoing review marks the first step in CAF’s disciplinary process. Possible sanctions could include fines, suspensions, or other penalties depending on the outcome of the investigations.