RABAT, Morocco (FN) — The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations concluded Sunday with a dramatic final in Rabat, where Senegal faced Morocco in a tense showdown that descended into chaos after a late video review awarded a penalty to the hosts.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the chaotic scenes that marred the Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco, saying Senegal’s brief walk-off protest “has no place in football.”
The incident unfolded Sunday in Rabat when Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty after a lengthy video review for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Senegal’s players, furious at the decision, stormed off the field, halting play for nearly 20 minutes.
Infantino, who attended the final, said the conduct of Senegal’s players, staff, and supporters was unacceptable. “It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner,” he told reporters. “We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials.”
The penalty, taken by Díaz, was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, keeping the score level at 0-0. Senegal returned to the pitch after intervention from senior players, including captain Sadio Mané.
The match eventually resumed and was decided in extra time, when Pape Gueye scored the winning goal to secure Senegal’s second AFCON title. Morocco, the host nation, finished as runners-up.
Infantino praised Morocco’s organization of the tournament but stressed that the chaotic scenes risked overshadowing the competition. “Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk,” he said.
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw later issued an apology, acknowledging that emotions ran high and promising that his team would learn from the incident. “We regret the way we reacted,” Thiaw said. “It was not the image we wanted to show.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has opened a disciplinary review into the events, with possible sanctions for both teams. CAF officials said they would examine the conduct of players, staff, and fans during the final.
The controversy has reignited debate over the use of video assistant referees in high-stakes matches. Critics argue that lengthy reviews disrupt the flow of play and inflame tensions, while supporters insist VAR ensures fairness in critical decisions.
Despite the turmoil, Senegal’s victory was celebrated across Dakar and beyond, with fans hailing the team’s resilience. Yet Infantino’s stern words underscored FIFA’s determination to uphold discipline and protect football’s integrity on the global stage.
