FIFA President Calls for Accountability After Senegal vs Morocco AFCON Chaos: 'Violence Cannot Be Tolerated'

FIFA president Gianni Infantino praised Senegal for their AFCON 2025 triumph but strongly condemned the conduct that marred the final.

The Teranga Lions’ victory over Morocco was overshadowed by a chaotic 14-minute stoppage after head coach Pape Thiaw led his players off the pitch in protest of a late VAR-awarded penalty.

The walk-off triggered unrest in the stands at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, with some Senegalese supporters attempting to breach the field and clashing with security personnel.

Amid the disorder, acts of vandalism were reported, including seats being torn out and objects being thrown toward stewards and journalists.

Senegal returned to the pitch following intervention from captain Sadio Mané, and Edouard Mendy’s crucial penalty save swung momentum back in their favour, who went on to secure their second continental crown with a decisive extra-time strike from Pape Gueye.

In a post on his Instagram handle, Gianni Infantino said he wished to acknowledge Senegal’s achievement in emerging victorious at the continental tournament, noting that their success reflected collective efforts.

He extended his goodwill to the head of the Senegalese Football Association and praised the unity and organisation that underpinned the nation’s campaign.

He also took time to commend Morocco for delivering an impressive competition, emphasising that their performance as finalists and their role as hosts demonstrated professionalism and excellence throughout the tournament.

The FIFA president expressed his appreciation to Morocco’s head of state for his ongoing backing of the sport and highlighted the important role played by the president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, crediting his guidance, dedication, and influence in advancing football both nationally and within global governing structures.

“Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands, we strongly condemn the behaviour of some 'supporters' as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport; it is simply not right,” he added.

“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”

Gianni Infantino stressed that footballers and their teams carried a duty to conduct themselves with discipline and maturity, as their behaviour influenced spectators in the stadium and audiences across the globe.

He made it clear that the incidents seen during the match were unacceptable and should not be allowed to happen again under any circumstances.

He added that such actions were incompatible with the values of the sport and expressed his expectation that the appropriate governing and disciplinary authorities within CAF would review the matter carefully and respond with suitable action.

“It is also the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world,” Gianni Infantino added.

“The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated. I reiterated that they have no place in football, and I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF will take the appropriate measures.”