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CAF Imposes Sanctions following 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Final
Following the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a series of sanctions against players, coaches, and national football federations due to incidents during and after the match between Senegal and Morocco.The sanctions stem from unsportsmanlike conduct, violations of fair play principles, and actions deemed detrimental to the image of football. CAF announced the disciplinary actions on January 28, 2026.
senegal’s Pape Thiaw Receives Lengthy Ban
senegal’s head coach, Pape thiaw, has been suspended for five matches for “unsportsmanlike behavior, violation of the principles of fair play and integrity, and damage to the image of football” during the final. He has also been fined $100,000 USD. The specific details of Thiaw’s conduct leading to the suspension have not been fully disclosed by CAF,but reports suggest it relates to his behavior on the touchline and interactions with match officials.
Player Sanctions: Ndiaye, Sarr, Hakimi, and Saibari
Senegal players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr have each been handed two-match suspensions for “unsportsmanlike behavior towards the referee.” ESPN reports that these suspensions relate to protests and dissent shown towards the officiating crew during the match.
From the Moroccan side, Achraf Hakimi received a two-match suspension, with one match suspended, also for “unsportsmanlike behavior.” Ismael Saibari faces a more severe penalty, being suspended for three matches and fined $100,000 USD. Saibari’s sanction is linked to his alleged involvement in the theft of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towels, an incident that gained notable attention on social media. Goal.com provided coverage of the incident and subsequent investigation.
Financial Penalties for National Federations
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has been fined a total of $615,000 USD for “inappropriate behavior of it’s supporters,” “unsportsmanlike conduct of its players and staff,” and overall disciplinary issues related to the team. The Royal Moroccan football Federation (FRMF) has been fined $315,000 USD for “inappropriate behavior of its ball retrievers, supporters, and the Atlas Lions,” including an unauthorized incursion into the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) zone. FIFA regulations strictly prohibit interference with VAR operations.
Rejection of Moroccan Appeal
CAF has dismissed an appeal lodged by the Moroccan Football Federation concerning alleged violations of articles 82 and 84 of the CAN regulations. The moroccan federation argued that Senegal should have forfeited the match after leaving the field of play, but CAF upheld the match officials’ decision to continue the game.
Understanding CAF Disciplinary Procedures
CAF’s disciplinary procedures are outlined in its regulations,which aim to maintain the integrity of African football competitions. Sanctions can range from warnings and fines to suspensions and disqualifications. Appeals can be made to CAF’s appeals committee, and ultimately to