‘UNACCEPTABLE SCENES’: FIFA CHIEF CRITICIZES SENEGAL AFTER AFCON FINAL
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By: Fasasi Hammad
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned “some Senegal players” for the “unacceptable scenes” that overshadowed their victory in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, when they walked off the pitch in protest over a late penalty awarded to Morocco.
“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,” Infantino said in a statement sent to AFP. “Violence cannot be tolerated in our sport—it is simply not right.”
The AFCON final, tied 0-0 deep into injury time, was marred when most Senegalese players left the pitch after a VAR review awarded Morocco a penalty for a challenge on Brahim Diaz. Former Liverpool star Sadio Mane remained and urged his teammates to return, as they were already frustrated over a previously disallowed Senegal goal.
The incident sparked unrest in the stands, with some Senegalese fans attempting to enter the pitch and clashing with security. Play was halted for nearly 20 minutes before Diaz’s weak penalty was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Pape Gueye later scored a stunning goal in the fourth minute of extra time, giving Senegal a 1-0 win.
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While congratulating Morocco on “a fantastic tournament, both as runners-up and exceptional hosts,” Infantino stressed that teams must respect match officials’ decisions.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by 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,” he said.
Infantino also called on players and teams to set the right example for fans in stadiums and around the world. “The ugly scenes witnessed must be condemned and never repeated. They have no place in football, and I expect CAF’s relevant disciplinary bodies to take appropriate measures,” he added.
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