Senegal has come under heavy scrutiny after staging a protest during the Cup of Nations final against Morocco. The incident followed a late penalty awarded to the hosts after a VAR review.
Players from Senegal walked off the pitch in protest. They returned several minutes later, allowing the match to continue.
Morocco missed the penalty, which sent the game into extra time. Senegal then scored the decisive goal to secure a 1–0 victory. The win marked Senegal’s second Cup of Nations title in three editions.
The African Cup of Nations never fails to disappoint, & the final was no different. Having first had a goal disallowed and then a controversial penalty go against them, Senegal's coach ordered his side to walk off the pitch in protest | @DAZNFootball @CAF_Online pic.twitter.com/F0WkiBclA7
— 10 News Adelaide (@10NewsAdl) January 19, 2026Despite the result, football authorities strongly condemned the protest. The Confederation of African Football and FIFA criticised the conduct. FIFA President Gianni Infantino also denounced the walk-off.
Sunday’s final was delicately poised at 0–0 deep into stoppage time when Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review of an incident involving Senegal defender Moussa Diouf and Morocco forward Brahim Díaz. The decision sparked furious protests from Senegalese players and…
— The Revived Spirit Ambassador (@mrameen83) January 19, 2026Senegal head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw, who instructed the players to leave the field, now faces possible disciplinary charges. Several players involved may also be cited.
The situation raises concerns ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Senegal are scheduled to play France and Norway in New York during the group stage. Any suspensions could affect key matches.
Senegal leaving the field to protest referee decisions before winning the Africa Cup of Nations title amid shocking chaos was "unacceptable," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said Monday. https://t.co/bJPpgrVzeN
— Washington Times Sports (@WashTimesSports) January 19, 2026Thiaw later expressed regret for his decision. Speaking in a television interview, he admitted he should not have ordered the walk-off. He apologised and said emotions influenced his judgment.
He added that refereeing errors are part of football and should be accepted. Thiaw said the team should not have reacted in that manner, even under pressure.
CAF confirmed it has opened a formal review. Officials are examining match footage and will refer the case to disciplinary bodies. The organisation said it condemns unacceptable behaviour by players and officials and will take appropriate action.
