Senegal and Morocco Face Heavy Fines and Bans Following AFCON Final Chaos. Dakar, Senegal — The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a record-breaking fine of over $1. 02 million on Senegal and Morocco following the tumultuous conclusion of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final.
The sanctions, announced on Thursday, include fines and bans for players, coaches, and officials involved in the controversial events that unfolded during the match.
According to local reports, the Senegalese Football Federation was fined KSh 79. 9 million (USD 615,000), while the Royal Moroccan Football Federation was fined KSh 53.
9 million (USD 415,000).
The fines were levied for unsporting and improper conduct by their players, coaching staff, and supporters.
The January 18 AFCON finale saw Senegal’s players walk off the pitch, led by coach Pape Thiaw, in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco late in regulation time.
Despite the walk — off, Senegal ultimately won the match 1-0 in extra time.
The heated final in Rabat also saw fans attempting to storm the field, players from both teams scuffling on the sidelines, and journalists from the two countries involved in fights in media areas. Morocco coach Walid Regragui described the game as a “shameful “image for African football.
The incident has also strained diplomatic ties between Senegal and Morocco, prompting government officials in both nations to pledge to maintain good relations and call for calm.
In Morocco, rights groups denounced what they called hate speech targeting sub — Saharan African residents in the country. Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko said the reaction to the game should be seen as “emotional outbursts produced by fervour and not as political or cultural rifts.”.
The chaotic African final has cast a shadow over Morocco’s ambitions to host the 2030 FIFA World Cup final, with Spain’s football federation already declaring that the final will be hosted in the country. FIFA, who will have the final say, have yet to confirm the location of the showpiece match. Further details are expected as the situation develops.
Source: [streamlinefeed. Co.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 3*
