Morocco take AFCON final controversy to Caf and Fifa
AFCON 2025
Morocco has officially confirmed they will lodge a complaint with FIFA and CAF over Senegal’s dramatic walk-off during Sunday’s final. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: backpagepix
Morocco have confirmed their intention to lodge a formal complaint with CAF and Fifa following the chaotic closing stages of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final against Senegal in Rabat.
In a statement, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) said it would follow the prescribed legal procedures to challenge Senegal’s temporary withdrawal from the pitch and the disruption that followed the referee’s confirmation of a late penalty after a VAR review.
The federation believes the incident had a significant impact on the normal flow of the match and the psychological state of the players at a decisive moment.
The controversy unfolded in the 95th minute when Congolese referee Ndala Ngambo awarded Morocco a penalty after Malick Diouf was adjudged to have fouled Brahim Diaz.
Following a lengthy VAR consultation, the decision was upheld three minutes later, triggering furious protests from the Senegal coaching staff and players, who briefly walked off the field before eventually returning, with Sadio Mane playing a key role in persuading his teammates to resume play.
Tensions had already been simmering after Senegal felt aggrieved moments earlier when a foul went against them in the build-up to a goal they believed should have stood, adding to the sense of injustice that fueled the reaction to the penalty decision.
CAF have since condemned the behaviour witnessed during the final, describing it as unacceptable, particularly where match officials were targeted. The governing body confirmed it is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to the appropriate disciplinary bodies.
When play resumed, Diaz missed the penalty, compounding the drama of an already fractious finale. The forward later apologised to Moroccan supporters, admitting the moment would be difficult to process but vowing to restore their faith.
With the dust yet to settle, Morocco have now taken the battle into the boardroom, as fallout continues from what is shaping up to be one of the most controversial AFCON tournaments in history.