The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final between Senegal and Morocco will be remembered not only for the intensity of the match, but also for the incidents that marred it. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced on Thursday, January 29, 2026, the sanctions imposed on the players, staff, and federations of both countries, following a thorough investigation into the unsportsmanlike conduct observed during the final.

Sanctions against Senegal

Senegal , officially crowned African champions for 2025 by CAF, has been sanctioned for several offenses.

- Pape Bouna Thiaw , the Senegalese coach, is suspended for 5 official CAF matches and must pay a fine of USD 100,000 for behavior deemed unsportsmanlike.

-Players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr have each received a 2-match CAF official suspension , notably for making disrespectful remarks and gestures towards the referee.

-The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) is fined USD 615,000 , including:

• $300,000 USD for inappropriate fan behavior,

• $300,000 USD for the unsportsmanlike conduct of the team and staff,

• $15,000 USD for the cumulative total of cards received by the players.

Despite these financial and disciplinary sanctions, the title of African champion 2025 remains with Senegal, as the CAF rejected any Moroccan request to withdraw this title.

Sanctions against Morocco

Morocco is not spared either:

-The player Achraf Hakimi is suspended for 2 official matches , with one match conditionally suspended for one year.

-Ismaël Saibari receives a 3-match suspension and a fine of USD 100,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct.

-The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) must pay USD 315,000 in fines , broken down as follows:

• $200,000 USD for inappropriate behavior by ball boys,

• $100,000 USD for intrusion into the VAR zone and obstruction of referees,

• $15,000 USD for the use of lasers by supporters.

These measures come after a final marked by tensions, unsportsmanlike conduct by some players and staff members, as well as excesses on the part of the supporters.

The CAF's message

In an official statement, CAF reiterated that these sanctions are in accordance with the organization's Disciplinary Code and aim to preserve the integrity and image of African football . The organization also emphasized that football remains a competition where respect for the rules and for the opponent is fundamental, and that unsportsmanlike conduct will not go unpunished .



This decision by CAF, although severe, shows the body's determination to ensure a safe and fair environment for African competitions , while reminding federations, players and supporters that fair play remains a priority.