FIFA President Gianni Infantino has condemned the conduct of some Senegal players, officials and supporters following chaotic scenes that overshadowed Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.
In a statement sent to AFP, Infantino described the behaviour as “unacceptable” after several Senegalese players walked off the pitch in protest at 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. “Violence cannot be tolerated in our sport; it is simply not right.”
The incident occurred deep into injury time with the final locked at 0–0, when Morocco were awarded a spot-kick following a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Diaz. Most of the Senegal team left the field in protest, delaying the match for almost 20 minutes.
Senegal captain and former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane stayed on the pitch and was seen urging his teammates to return so the match could resume.
The Senegal players were already angered after having a goal disallowed moments earlier for what appeared to be a soft foul.
Meanwhile, disorder also broke out in the stands as some Senegalese fans attempted to enter the pitch and clashed with security personnel.
After play eventually resumed, Diaz’s attempted panenka penalty was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Despite the dramatic finish, the controversy has now drawn sharp criticism from world football’s governing body, with Infantino insisting such conduct has no place in the game.
