AFCON 2025 FINAL: CAF Bans Thiaw, Fines Senegal, Morocco

Kabiru Abdulrauf
1 Min Read

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has sanctioned Senegal and Morocco following chaotic scenes during the 2026 AFCON final in Rabat.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw received a five-match ban for unsporting conduct, while Senegal stars Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were handed two-match suspensions.

Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi was banned for two matches and teammate Ismael Saibari received a three-match ban plus a $100,000 fine.

CAF fined the Senegal Football Federation $615,000 for misconduct by players and officials, while Morocco’s federation was fined $315,000 over ball boy behaviour, VAR area invasion, and supporters using lasers.

The chaos followed a disallowed Senegal goal and a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco, which was later missed. Senegal eventually won 1-0 after extra time to claim their second AFCON title.

The sanctions apply only to CAF competitions and will not affect both teams’ participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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Kabiru Abdulrauf is known for his clear, concise storytelling style and his ability to adapt content for television, online platforms, and social media. His work reflects a commitment to accuracy, balance, and audience engagement, with particular interest in African affairs and global developments.