Morocco’s football federation has announced plans to appeal disciplinary sanctions and fines imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following chaotic scenes during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Senegal last month.
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was fined a total of $315,000, in addition to bans handed to two Moroccan players. In a statement, the federation said it would formally lodge an appeal “to preserve all rights guaranteed by the regulations,” arguing that the sanctions were disproportionate to the incidents that occurred during the match.
The AFCON final, played on January 18, was marred by controversy late in regulation time. A goal by Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr was ruled out for a foul on Achraf Hakimi, the 2025 African Player of the Year. Moments later, Morocco were awarded a penalty after Brahim Diaz was fouled, triggering intense protests from Senegalese players and officials.
After a prolonged delay, Diaz missed the penalty, with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy making a comfortable save. The match proceeded to extra time, where Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal, handing Senegal their second AFCON title.
During the stoppage caused by the disputed penalty decision, some Senegal supporters threw projectiles onto the pitch, while others briefly invaded the field before security personnel restored order.
CAF fined Morocco $200,000 for the “inappropriate behaviour of stadium ball boys,” $100,000 for the “improper conduct” of players and technical staff who invaded the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review area, and $15,000 for the use of lasers by supporters to distract Senegalese players.
Individually, Moroccan forward Ismael Saibari received a three-match ban and a $100,000 fine for unsporting behaviour, while team captain Achraf Hakimi was handed a two-match suspension.
The Senegal Football Federation (FSF), which was fined $615,000 for various offences, also announced plans to appeal CAF’s decision. Head coach Pape Thiaw was banned for five matches, while players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr received two-match bans for unsporting conduct toward match officials.
CAF stated that Senegal’s sanctions were linked to violations of its disciplinary code, including breaches of fair play, loyalty and integrity principles.
