CAF President, Patrice Motsepe
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has strongly criticised what it termed “unacceptable behaviour” by certain players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final between hosts Morocco and Senegal in Rabat.
In a statement issued on January 19, 2026, the continental governing body said it, “strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers.”
CAF confirmed that it has begun a comprehensive review of all available video footage from the high-profile encounter and will forward its findings to the relevant disciplinary committees for further action.
“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty,” the statement said.
The tournament decider, which brought the curtains down on Africa’s flagship competition in Morocco, was overshadowed by chaotic scenes late in the contest. Tensions boiled over following a series of disputed officiating decisions, most notably a penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time.
In protest, Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch, forcing a delay before play could resume. The match had ended goalless after regulation time, but Senegal eventually secured a 1-0 victory in extra time.
Although CAF did not name specific individuals in its statement, the organisation made clear that conduct directed at match officials remains a serious concern, underscoring its broader campaign to promote discipline and respect across African football.
The governing body reiterated that misconduct, whether on or off the field, will not be tolerated and will attract firm sanctions once investigations are concluded.
The ongoing review and referral to disciplinary bodies mark the first formal step in the process, with possible penalties ranging from fines and suspensions to other measures, depending on the outcome of CAF’s disciplinary proceedings.