CAN 2025: The CAF’s axe has fallen, and Morocco is not spared

The Disciplinary Committee of the CAF has ruled after the disturbances that marked the end of the continental competition. The two federations were found guilty of various violations of the ethical and sporting code, resulting in a shower of suspensions and financial penalties amounting to several hundred thousand dollars. This verdict comes in a climate of high tension between the two nations after a final that was interrupted.

On the Senegalese side, the sanctions hit the technical staff hard. Head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw received a five-match suspension and a $100,000 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct. Players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr are suspended for two matches. In total, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) will have to pay $615,000, mainly due to the attitude of its supporters and technical staff.

Morocco, the host country, is also subject to very strong measures. Achraf Hakimi has been suspended for two matches (one of which is suspended), while Ismaël Saibari will serve three matches and pay a fine of $100,000. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) is fined $315,000 for logistical failures, including the behavior of ball boys and the intrusion of team members into the video assistant referee (VAR) area.

However, the pan-African body has chosen to dismiss the most contentious point by rejecting Morocco’s complaint regarding the withdrawal of Senegalese players before the final whistle. By avoiding qualifying this act as an "abandonment", the CAF spares itself the application of the most severe articles of its regulations.