Morocco’s football authorities have announced plans to appeal the heavy fines and player suspensions imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following the dramatic and disorderly Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final against Senegal.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) confirmed in a statement that it will contest the sanctions, insisting they do not reflect the scale or seriousness of the incidents that occurred during the January 18 final.
CAF had fined Morocco a total of $315,000 and handed bans to two key players after the heated encounter, which ended in Senegal claiming a second AFCON title after extra time.
The match took a dramatic turn late in regulation time when Senegal forward Ismaila Sarr had a goal ruled out for a foul on African Player of the Year, Achraf Hakimi. Tensions escalated further when Morocco were awarded a penalty after Brahim Diaz was fouled, prompting furious protests from Senegalese players and officials.
After a lengthy delay, Diaz missed the penalty, with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy making a comfortable save. The match eventually went into extra time, where Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal to seal victory for Senegal.
During the controversy surrounding the penalty decision, some Senegal supporters reportedly threw objects onto the pitch, while others briefly invaded the field before security personnel restored order.
CAF later fined Morocco $200,000 for the “inappropriate behaviour of stadium ball boys,” $100,000 for the improper conduct of players and officials who entered the VAR review area, and $15,000 after fans used laser pointers to distract Senegalese players.
Additionally, Moroccan forward Ismael Saibari received a three-match ban and a $100,000 fine for unsporting behaviour, while captain Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two matches.
The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) also confirmed it would appeal CAF’s decisions after being fined $615,000 for various infractions during the final. Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw was handed a five-match ban, while players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr received two-match suspensions for unsporting conduct towards the referee.
CAF said Senegal’s sanctions were linked to breaches of disciplinary rules, including violations of fair play, loyalty, and integrity by players and technical staff.
Both federations are now seeking redress as the fallout from one of the most controversial AFCON finals in recent history continues.
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