Senegal Boss and Hakimi Receive AFCON Bans Amid Final Chaos

Senegal boss Pape Thiaw at the heart of AFCON final chaos saw a storm of disciplinary actions following the turbulent conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations decider against Morocco. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has levied suspensions and over £1 million in fines to both AFCON champions Senegal and runners-up Morocco in response to the controversial match events.

AFCON Final Chaos Leads to Severe Sanctions

The AFCON final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium descended into controversy after a late goal by Senegal’s Abdoulaye Seck was ruled out by referee Jean-Jacques Ndala. The decision was swiftly followed by a disputed penalty awarded to Morocco, sparking outrage from Senegal boss Pape Thiaw. In protest, Thiaw called his players off the field, leading to a 15-minute suspension of play.

Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the resulting Panenka penalty, and Senegal’s Pape Gueye secured victory with a remarkable strike in extra-time. However, the aftermath saw football’s governing bodies scrutinize the conduct of players, coaches, and supporters, leading to unprecedented disciplinary measures.

Pape Thiaw and Achraf Hakimi Among Those Banned

Among the most significant sanctions, Senegal boss Pape Thiaw received a five-match ban and a £72,000 fine for instructing his squad to leave the pitch in protest. Senegal’s Football Association was fined £445,000, citing both the staff’s unsporting actions and the violent clashes involving fans and security personnel.

For Morocco, their captain Achraf Hakimi was handed a two-match ban—one suspended for a year—after he and teammate Ismael Saibari attempted to interfere with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s preparation by removing his towel. Saibari faces a three-game ban and a £72,000 fine. Morocco’s FA was fined £228,000 for the actions of their ball boys, pitch-side staff, and fans using laser pens to distract Senegalese players.

Illiman Ndiaye of Everton and Ismaila Sarr of Crystal Palace also received two-match suspensions for their roles in the incident. These punishments underscore CAF’s zero-tolerance stance toward misconduct and unsportsmanlike behavior.

FIFA Condemns Behavior and Calls for Respect

FIFA President Gianni Infantino publicly condemned the chaotic scenes, emphasizing that violence and disrespect for the spirit of the game have no place in football. “We witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands—such behavior from supporters, players, and staff is not right,” Infantino asserted, reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to fair play and respect.

Sadio Mane Exemplifies Leadership Amidst Tension

Throughout the ordeal, former Liverpool star Sadio Mane emerged as a calming influence, intervening to persuade his Senegal teammates to resume play despite their frustrations. “Football is about respecting the game and understanding that referees can make mistakes,” Mane told reporters. He urged his team to uphold the integrity of the sport, reminding everyone of the eyes of the world watching the spectacle.

Looking Ahead: World Cup Implications

Both Senegal and Morocco now face competition at the upcoming World Cup in North America. Morocco is set in Group C alongside Brazil, Haiti, and Scotland, while Senegal will battle France, Norway, and an as-yet-undetermined nation in Group I. However, the suspensions—especially for Senegal boss Pape Thiaw—could significantly impact team preparations and strategies on football’s biggest stage.

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Opinion: Upholding Football’s Integrity is Crucial

The harsh penalties handed out after the AFCON final serve as a powerful reminder that no matter the stakes, respect for the game’s rules and values must come first. While emotions often run high in such decisive matches, setting a clear standard for discipline is essential to preserving football’s integrity and ensuring these moments are remembered for the right reasons.