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Pape Thiaw seen urging his players to leave the pitch and head to the dressing room
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Sports Desk
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has taken disciplinary action against Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw, suspending the 44-year-old following his unsportsmanlike conduct during the 35th edition of the AFCON final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.
The Teranga Lions gaffer is accused of instigating his players to leave the pitch after hosts Morocco were awarded a last-minute penalty while the final was tied at 0–0.
In the 97th minute, Morocco were awarded a penalty following a foul on Brahim Díaz, when a Senegalese defender prevented the Real Madrid star from connecting with a corner kick. The decision sparked chaotic scenes, with an enraged Pape Thiaw seen urging his players to leave the pitch and head to the dressing room.
Chaos ensued as aggrieved Senegalese fans attempted to gain access to the pitch, but security personnel intervened to restore order, preventing the fans from entering the field. Some were arrested, while others returned to their seats.
It took Liverpool legend Sadio Mané time to appeal to his coach and teammates to resume play, eventually leading to the players’ return to the pitch.
Normalcy was restored after a lengthy 16-minute delay. Brahim Díaz then stepped up to take the penalty, attempting a Panenka, but Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved the spot kick, pushing the match into extra time.
In the first half of extra time, Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal to hand the Teranga Lions their second AFCON title in five years, while Morocco’s wait for a second continental crown extended to 50 years.
The incident involving the Senegalese players drew condemnation from both CAF and FIFA, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino issuing a personal statement against the conduct.
The length of the suspension has not been stated, and the full consequences remain unclear as investigations into the matter continue.
The repercussions could extend beyond African football. Should a severe penalty be imposed, Pape Thiaw could miss the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This prospect is already causing concern in Senegal and raises broader questions about the implications of the incident for African football on the global stage.
Torch Media Africa
