Morocco’s football authorities have formally called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and world governing body FIFA to intervene after Senegal’s national team prematurely left the pitch during the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, describing the action as “unacceptable” and a breach of competition rules.
The unprecedented walk-out occurred late in Sunday’s final in Rabat following a contentious refereeing decision that awarded a penalty to Morocco. Senegal’s players briefly refused to continue before eventually returning, and the match concluded with Senegal lifting the trophy after a narrow victory.
In a statement on Monday, the Moroccan Royal Football Federation (FRMF) said the incident threatened the integrity of the tournament’s climax and demanded clarity on disciplinary measures. “We call on CAF and FIFA to examine this matter urgently,” the federation said, insisting that teams must respect the authority of match officials and the spirit of the sport.
The FRMF’s appeal argued that a team’s withdrawal — even temporarily — undermines the rules governing competition and sets a poor precedent for future tournaments. “The unity of African football and the credibility of our competitions must be safeguarded,” the Moroccan statement added.
CAF has previously condemned the on-field conduct as “unacceptable” and opened a disciplinary review, saying it would consider all match footage before determining sanctions. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to professional standards and respect for refereeing decisions across the continent’s flagship event.
The incident has sparked debate among football stakeholders, with some analysts saying Senegal’s protest highlighted broader frustrations with officiating, and others warning it risked destabilising the tournament’s competitive balance.
As governing bodies deliberate, Morocco’s request for intervention signals that the fallout from AFCON 2025’s dramatic finale — one marked by tension as well as celebration — is likely to extend beyond the pitch.
