Senegal are facing an investigation after a player and coach were sent off in injury time during the AFCON final against hosts Morocco.
Published January 22, 2026
Senegal coach Pape Thiau has defended his team’s walk-off exit from the African Cup of Nations final, saying it was an emotional decision amid turmoil.
Last Sunday, just after Senegal’s goal that could have given them the trophy was canceled out, Morocco were awarded a penalty and Senegal left the field in stoppage time.
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“I never intended to go against the principles of the game I love,” Thiau wrote on Instagram on Thursday. “I was simply trying to protect my players from injustice. Some may see this as a violation of the rules, but it is simply an emotional reaction to the lopsidedness of the situation. After much consideration, we have decided to restart the game and go for the trophy.”
Sadio Mane persuaded the Senegalese players to allow Brahim Dias to take Morocco’s penalty. Díaz’s shot was saved in the final action of normal time, and Pape Guay scored in extra time to give Senegal a 1-0 victory.
The next day, FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned Senegal’s walkover, saying the Moroccan Football Federation was pursuing legal action with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football because it had “significantly affected the normal flow of matches and the performance of the players.”
The decision to award a penalty sparked a scuffle around the field with rival players on the sideline, and the stewards scuffled with the Senegalese behind the goal. Some fans managed to reach the field where fighting continued, but others were dragged out.
Senegal’s walk-off win ultimately led to a 15-minute stoppage, but the fight was still going on when Brahim took a sports kick that failed.
“We experienced an extraordinary tournament with a great organization, but unfortunately it ended in a dramatic way,” Thiau said.
The Senegalese Football Federation criticized the Moroccan hosts’ lack of “fair play” before the final, and the sense of unfairness for Teranga Lions was further compounded by a late goal being canceled and a penalty awarded against Teranga Lions.
“I apologize if I offended anyone,” Thiau said of his team’s loss, “but football lovers will understand that emotions are an integral part of this sport.”
