Champions Face Sanctions After Chaotic Final Protest; Mané Says Quitting Would Have Been “Crazy”
Senegal’s historic Africa Cup of Nations victory is at risk of being overshadowed by disciplinary action after the team’s dramatic walk-off in the final minutes of regulation time, an act condemned by tournament organizers and opponents alike.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a formal review of the incident, which saw Senegal’s players, directed by coach Pape Thiaw, leave the pitch in protest of a late penalty awarded to host nation Morocco. The 16-minute stoppage cast a shadow over what became an extra-time triumph for the Lions of Teranga.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team,” read a statement from the governing body, which promised “appropriate action” after reviewing footage.
The controversy erupted in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Moments after Senegal had a potential winning goal disallowed, a VAR check resulted in a penalty for Morocco. An incensed Thiaw then led his squad to the locker room.
Senior player Sadio Mané revealed he was reluctant to join the protest, telling reporters it would have been “crazy” not to finish the match. “I think it would convey a negative image of our football,” Mané said. “I’d rather lose than this kind of thing happen… I did what I had to do.”
Following the delay, Morocco’s Brahim Díaz missed the penalty, and Pape Gueye’s spectacular strike in extra time secured Senegal’s championship.
Thiaw has since apologized, admitting he reacted in the heat of the moment. “We shouldn’t have done it,” he told beIN Sports. “We present our apologies to football.”
His counterpart, Morocco’s Walid Regragui, offered no sympathy. “The image we’ve given of Africa is shameful,” he stated. “What Pape did does not honour Africa.”
While Senegal celebrates its second AFCON title, the impending CAF investigation ensures the chaotic finale will linger, probing the line between passionate protest and conduct unbecoming of a continental champion.
Similar Posts:
- FIFA President Demands Sanctions as Senegal Coach Faces Ban for AFCON Final Walk-Off
- Senegal Coach Pape Thiaw Apologizes for Walk-Off in AFCON Final Triumph
- Senegal Clinches AFCON Title in Chaotic Final After Moroccan Penalty Drama
- Did Brahim Díaz Miss His Penalty on Purpose? AFCON Final Ignites Bizarre Conspiracy
- Morocco Coach Denounces Shameful Final Chaos After Heartbreaking Home Defeat
