African football’s governing body calls for punishments after AFCON final

African football’s governing body says it “condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials” during the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Senegal were crowned African champions for a second time after beating Morocco in a final filled with controversy.

That included the Senegalese players leaving the pitch after Morocco had been awarded a late penalty, before re-emerging from the changing rooms after a 15-minute delay.

Brahim Diaz ended up missing the penalty before Pape Gueye scored in extra time to win the game.

Footage which appears to show ball boys attempting to steal Edouard Mendy’s towel has also been widely shared.

But the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has called for punishments for those found guilty of “inappropriate behaviour”.

“The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night,” the statement said.

“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers. 

“CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”