Radio Monte Carlo reported that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) will impose heavy sanctions on Senegal player and coach Pape Thiaw for threatening to withdraw from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.
Thiao called on the Senegalese players to leave the pitch after referee Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty in the final minute. Several players did indeed leave for the dressing room before returning under significant pressure from Lions of Teranga star Sadio Mane.
According to the latest report, CAF will also impose a hefty fine of up to €100,000 on the Senegalese Football Federation (FSE) for the entire incident, in accordance with CAF regulations regarding withdrawals or leaving the field.
It appears that CAF has decided to suspend Pape Thiaw for a lengthy period, considering him the mastermind behind the withdrawal. The suspension is said to be more than six matches, a decision the Senegalese Federation is expected to appeal immediately.
Besides Thiaw, several other players are expected to be suspended for periods ranging from four to six matches. This suspension will cover all upcoming official matches in various international competitions, not just African ones, meaning that a number of Senegalese players will miss the 2026 World Cup.
The penalties will not stop there. CAF is also considering banning fans from attending several of Senegal’s upcoming official matches and preventing Senegalese fans from traveling to other countries to support their national team.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the events of the final, stating in an official statement that the Senegalese players’ actions were unacceptable and called them “unacceptable,” urging CAF to take the necessary legal action.
