When “some Senegal players” stormed off the field in protest over a penalty given to Morocco in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final, FIFA President Gianni Infantino denounced them for the “unacceptable scenes” that tarnished their victory.
“We strongly condemn the actions of certain Senegalese players and technical staff members, as well as some “supporters.” “Leaving the field of play in this way is unacceptable,” Infantino said in a statement today.
“Leaving the field of play in this way is unacceptable, and violence in our sport cannot be tolerated; it is just wrong.”
The highlight of African football was overshadowed by the majority of Senegalese players leaving the field during injury time during regular play. With the score tied at zero, Morocco was given a penalty kick after a VAR check for a challenge on Brahim Diaz.
Sadio Mane, a former Liverpool player for Senegal, stayed on the field and pushed his teammates to return for the penalty.
They were already incensed after a goal was disallowed minutes earlier due to a soft-looking foul at the other end.
As several Senegalese spectators attempted to access the field of play and got into altercations with security guards, unrest erupted in the stands.
Before Diaz could take the penalty, the game was delayed for over twenty minutes, and Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy stopped his feeble “panenka” kick.
Then, in the fourth minute of extra time, Pape Gueye scored a spectacular goal to give his team a 1-0 victory.
While praising Morocco for “a fantastic tournament, both as runners-up and exceptional hosts”—a boost ahead of their co-hosting of the men’s 2030 World Cup—Infantino stated that teams must respect the decisions made by the match officials.
“On and off the field of play, we must always respect the decisions made by the match officials,” he stated.
“The very essence of football is at risk when teams do not compete on the field and within the Laws of the Game.”
Images like those on Sunday sent the wrong message to supporters worldwide, according to Infantino, who will be praying that there be no such incidents in this year’s World Cup finals, which are co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“Teams and players have an obligation to act responsibly and provide a good example for the millions of people watching in stadiums around the world,” he added.
“The unpleasant scenes that were seen today must be denounced and never happen again. I reaffirmed that they have no place in football, and I anticipate that the relevant CAF disciplinary committees will take the necessary action.
About the Author
