Chaos Eclipses Senegal's Historic Africa Cup of Nations Victory

Mon Jan 19 2026 18:48:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Senegal's triumph over Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations finale is overshadowed by chaos, with players briefly refusing to play over controversial officiating.

In a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations final, Senegal overcame Morocco but not without incident. A last-minute penalty awarded against Senegal led to their players exiting the field in protest. Despite the controversy, Senegal secured the win, claiming their second Afcon title. FIFA condemned the events as 'shameful', while reactions from players and coaches reflect the emotional turmoil of the match.

Chaos Eclipses Senegal's Historic Africa Cup of Nations Victory

Senegal beat Morocco to win the Africa Cup of Nations for a second time - but only after the final was overshadowed when they temporarily refused to play after the hosts were awarded a stoppage-time penalty with the match goalless.

Referee Jean Jacques Ndala gave the spot-kick in the 98th minute after being advised by the video assistant referee (VAR) to consult the pitchside monitor and review defender El Hadji Malick Diouf's challenge on Brahim Diaz.

In a heated moment, head coach Pape Thiaw, frustrated by an earlier decision to disallow a Senegal goal, ordered his team off the field.

Former Liverpool striker Sadio Mane attempted to rally his teammates to continue the match, and after a 17-minute delay, they returned to the pitch.

The ensuing penalty was taken by Diaz, the tournament's top scorer, but his 'Panenka' was easily saved by Senegal keeper Edouard Mendy. Shortly after, Villarreal's Pape Gueye netted the winning goal in the fourth minute of extra time.

In the post-match conference, Morocco's coach Walid Regragui criticized Senegal's actions, calling them shameful and damaging to African football.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned what he described as ugly scenes, emphasizing the need for respect towards match officials.

Thiaw later expressed regret over the team's initial decision to leave the pitch, admitting it should not have happened. He acknowledged the controversial referee decisions that led to heightened emotions throughout the match.

Meanwhile, players reflected on the tumultuous experience, with Mane stating that the world is watching African football, and such moments should not reflect its image.

The chaos during the final raised significant discussions about refereeing standards and security measures in place for high-stakes matches of this nature.