Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Morocco in Sunday’s AFCON final has been overshadowed by a potential rule breach that could see the “Lions of Teranga” stripped of their title.
Despite Pape Gueye’s winning goal, the match is being remembered for a 20-minute standoff. Following a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco, Senegal manager Pape Thiaw ordered his team off the pitch in protest.
The match only resumed after Sadio Mane persuaded his teammates to return from the dressing room.
Morocco’s Brahim Diaz subsequently missed the resulting penalty, but the damage may have already been done to Senegal’s trophy hopes.
According to CAF Article 64, any team that refuses to play or leaves the field without referee authorization is considered the loser and eliminated from the competition.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the “unacceptable scenes,” stating that leaving the field puts the essence of football at risk.
Morocco Coach Walid Regragui labeled the scenes “shameful,” arguing the long delay disrupted the rhythm of the game and his players.
CAF confirmed a full review of footage is underway, with disciplinary proceedings to follow.
If CAF enforces the letter of the law, Senegal faces the unprecedented risk of being disqualified despite their on-field triumph.
