By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced a series of disciplinary measures against Morocco and Senegal following incidents that marred the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
In a statement released after reviewing reports from the match officials and disciplinary bodies, CAF rejected Morocco’s appeal to be declared champions of the tournament, putting to rest weeks of speculation surrounding the controversial final.
The Morocco Football Federation (FRMF) was fined a total of $315,000 for multiple infractions. CAF imposed a $200,000 fine for misconduct by stadium ball boys, $100,000 for players and officials invading the Restricted Referees’ Area (RRA), and $15,000 for the use of laser pointers by fans during the match.
CAF also handed down suspensions to two Moroccan players. Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi received a two-match CAF suspension, with one match suspended for a probationary period of one year. Midfielder Ismaël Saibari was banned for three CAF matches and fined an additional $100,000.
Senegal was hit with even stiffer financial penalties. The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) was fined a combined $615,000, including $300,000 for supporters’ improper conduct, another $300,000 for unsporting behaviour by players and officials that CAF said brought the game into disrepute, and $15,000 for five yellow-card infractions recorded during the final.
In addition, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw was suspended for five CAF matches and fined $100,000. Players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were each handed two-match CAF suspensions.
CAF said the sanctions were aimed at upholding discipline, respect for match officials, and the integrity of African football, stressing that similar behaviour in future competitions would attract even harsher penalties.
