AFCON ’25 Final: CAF Suspends Senegal, Morocco, Imposes Heavy Fines

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has suspended several players and officials and issued hefty fines to Senegal and Morocco following misconduct during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat.

Senegal’s head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw was banned for five CAF matches and fined $100,000 for unsporting conduct. Players Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were each suspended for two matches, while the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) was fined $615,000 for misconduct by supporters, players, and technical staff.

Morocco’s defender Achraf Hakimi and midfielder Ismaël Saibari were also suspended, with Saibari fined $100,000. The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was fined $300,000 for misconduct involving ball boys, officials, and fans.

The AFCON final, held on January 18 at Stade Mohammed V, was marred by controversy after Senegal had a goal disallowed and Morocco was awarded a late penalty. Senegal’s coach led his players off the pitch in protest, delaying the match. Play resumed, Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved the penalty, and Pape Gueye scored in extra time to secure the title for Senegal.

CAF also rejected Morocco’s protest against Senegal, finding no violations to support the claim.