CAF Sanctions Cast Long Shadow Over AFCON Final as Senegal Retain Title

CAF Sanctions Cast Long Shadow Over AFCON Final as Senegal Retain Title

By Wanjiru Esther

The aftermath of the Africa Cup of Nations final has taken a decisive turn after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) imposed heavy sanctions on both Senegal and Morocco, underlining the serious consequences of the chaotic scenes that overshadowed the tournament’s climax.

According to CAF, its Disciplinary Jury concluded investigations into incidents that occurred during and after the AFCON final, resulting in suspensions and fines targeting players, officials and football associations from both teams. Despite the punishments, CAF confirmed that Senegal remain the official AFCON 2025 champions, with the final result standing.

The most severe sanctions were handed to the Senegal camp. Head coach Pape Thiaw received a five-match suspension alongside a fine of $100,000, reflecting CAF’s stance on technical bench conduct during the protests that disrupted the match. Players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr were each handed two-match suspensions. In addition, the Senegal Football Association was fined a total of $615,000, a figure that highlights the scale at which CAF views collective responsibility.

Morocco also felt the weight of CAF’s disciplinary measures. Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two matches, with one match suspended, while Ismael Saibari received a three-match suspension and a $100,000 fine. The Moroccan Football Federation was fined $300,000, and an additional $200,000 fine was imposed over issues involving ball boys during the final. CAF also confirmed that it rejected an appeal lodged by the Moroccan Football Federation, effectively closing the case.

According to CAF, the sanctions were imposed to protect the integrity of African football and reinforce respect for match officials, competition regulations and disciplinary procedures. The governing body stated that behaviour witnessed during the final fell short of expected standards at a continental showpiece.

From a broader perspective, the disciplinary outcome has significant implications beyond the final itself. The suspensions will affect upcoming international fixtures and tournaments, while the financial penalties place a burden on federations already navigating tight budgets. The episode serves as a reminder that moments of protest and emotional reaction can carry long-term consequences for teams and administrators alike.

According to FIFA, respect for referees and adherence to disciplinary frameworks remain fundamental principles of the global game. While FIFA did not intervene directly in the case, its long-standing position on discipline aligns with CAF’s decision to act decisively following the AFCON final incidents.

While Senegal’s triumph on the pitch remains intact, the sanctions ensure that the final will be remembered not only for footballing excellence, but also as a turning point in CAF’s approach to discipline and accountability. The message from African football’s leadership is clear: success does not exempt teams from responsibility, and the cost of disorder can extend far beyond the final whistle.