The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed down significant sanctions against the football federations, players, and officials of Morocco and Senegal following incidents during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
In a statement, CAF said the penalties were issued after its Disciplinary Board reviewed multiple violations of the CAF Disciplinary Code that occurred during and after the final match.
Morocco faced several disciplinary measures. Star defender Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two official CAF matches, with one match suspended for a probationary period of one year, due to unsporting behaviour. Midfielder Ismaël Saibari received a three-match suspension and was fined USD 100,000 for misconduct during the final.
The Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was fined a total of USD 315,000. This included USD 200,000 for inappropriate conduct by stadium ball boys, USD 100,000 for Moroccan players and technical staff interfering in the VAR review area, and USD 15,000 for the use of laser pointers by Moroccan supporters. CAF also rejected a protest by the FRMF alleging violations by the Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF).
Senegal faced strict penalties as well. Head Coach Pape Bouna Thiaw was suspended for five official CAF matches and fined USD 100,000 for unsporting behaviour. Two players, Iliman Cheikh Baroy Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, were each suspended for two matches for misconduct towards match officials.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) was fined USD 615,000, comprising USD 300,000 for improper conduct by supporters, USD 300,000 for unsporting behaviour by players and technical staff, and USD 15,000 for team misconduct related to cautions issued to five players.
CAF stated that the sanctions underscore its commitment to discipline, respect for match officials, and the integrity of African football, particularly during high-profile competitions such as the Africa Cup of Nations.
