- Safiu Kehinde
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) President, Gianni Infantino, has condemned the Senegalese national team’s withdrawal of its players following the referee’s award of a controversial penalty to Morocco during the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final,
Infantino in a statement issued on his official Instagram handle on Monday described the incident as well as the violent clash between the Senegalese and Moroccan supporters as unacceptable.
The FIFA President had on Saturday evening witnessed that drama that unfolded during the match from the VIP stand.
Coupled with the Senegalese walk out from the pitch before being called back by former African player of the year, Sadio Mane, video clips shared on X showed the Teranga Lions supporters engaging the physical brawl with Moroccan fans at the stadium.
Infantino charged the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) to ensure disciplinary action is taken against the conduct.
“Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands – we strongly condemn the behaviour of some “supporters” as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.
“It is also the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world.
“The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated. I reiterated that they have no place in football and I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF will take the appropriate measures.” He wrote.
Meanwhile, Infantino congratulated Senegal over the victory while also saluting Morocco for putting up what he described as a fantastic tournament.
“Congratulations to 🇸🇳 Senegal on being crowned champions of Africa and winners of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations final against 🇲🇦 Morocco in Rabat. My best wishes as well to Abdoulaye Fall, President of the Senegalese Football Association, and to everyone involved in this success. 🏆👏
“Well done also to 🇲🇦 Morocco on a fantastic tournament, both as runners-up and exceptional hosts. My sincere thanks to His Majesty King Mohammed VI for his constant support of football, and to Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and FIFA Council member, for his leadership and commitment to the game. ⚽👏” He added.