The AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco descended into chaos after a late penalty awarded for a foul on Brahim Diaz. In a tournament already surrounded by refereeing controversies, the decision sparked outrage on the Senegalese side.
Supporters invaded the pitch, stewards were attacked, and the match came to a halt when Senegal coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players to return to the locker room in protest. After nearly 15 minutes of stoppage, captain Sadio Mané intervened and convinced his teammates to resume play, allowing the match to reach its conclusion.
While Senegal eventually celebrated a historic second AFCON title, Thiaw’s gesture drew strong criticism from Walid Regragui. The Moroccan coach condemned the image projected to the world, calling the attitude “shameful” and “not worthy of African football,” even while acknowledging Thiaw’s status as a continental champion.
“The image we’ve given of Africa today is rather shameful! When a coach asks his players to leave the pitch… What Pape did tonight doesn’t honor Africa. It’s not classy, but it’s not a big deal. He’s an African champion, so he has the right to say what he wants.” The match was stopped in front of the world for at least 10 minutes… That didn’t help Brahim. It’s not an excuse for the way he shot. But we’re not going to dwell on it. We’ll take responsibility for it ” he said.
Thiaw later admitted his mistake and apologized, though he maintained his belief that the decision was unfair. The damage, however, was already done, leaving this final remembered as much for its tension and controversy as for Senegal’s triumph.