Morocco have announced plans to pursue legal action following their controversial 1–0 defeat to Senegal in Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final, a match marred by protests, delays, and disciplinary fallout.
What Happened
The hosts argue the final was fundamentally disrupted after Senegalese players walked off the pitch in protest at a late VAR decision. Deep into stoppage time of regulation, Morocco were awarded a penalty for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Senegal’s players left the field, prompting a delay of about 14 minutes before play resumed. Díaz later missed the spot kick, and Senegal regrouped to win the final in extra time through Pape Gueye’s decisive strike.
Morocco’s Position
In a statement, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation confirmed it would file formal complaints with both CAF and FIFA.
“The federation announces that it will pursue legal action… to rule on the walk-off of the Senegalese national team from the field during the final, as well as on the events surrounding this decision,” the statement said, adding that the incident “had a significant impact on the normal course of the match and on the players’ performance.”
Reactions
FIFA president Gianni Infantino, while congratulating Senegal on lifting the trophy, condemned the scenes.
“We also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands,” Infantino said. “It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner… We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials.”
What’s Next
CAF has confirmed it is reviewing all available footage and will open disciplinary proceedings.
“CAF condemns the unacceptable behaviour from some players and officials,” the governing body said, noting the matter would be referred to the appropriate bodies as scrutiny continues over one of the most controversial AFCON finals in recent history.
Result: Senegal 1–0 Morocco (aet)
Goal: Pape Gueye (ET)
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