Afcon Final: Senegal Walk Off After Morocco Penalty Controversy
- Senegal head coach pape Thiaw reacted with visible frustration and briefly encouraged his team to leave the pitch following a late penalty awarded to Morocco in the 98th...
- The decision sparked immediate controversy, with many questioning its validity given the late stage of the match and the significance of the moment.
- Former Nigeria international Efan Ekoku, providing commentary for E4, criticized the Senegalese team's reaction, stating that disputing the referee's decision in such a manner was inappropriate.
Africa Cup of Nations Final Marred by Controversial penalty Decision
Senegal head coach pape Thiaw reacted with visible frustration and briefly encouraged his team to leave the pitch following a late penalty awarded to Morocco in the 98th minute of the Africa Cup of Nations final.The penalty, awarded by referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, stemmed from a challenge by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Morocco’s Brahim Diaz inside the penalty area.
The decision sparked immediate controversy, with many questioning its validity given the late stage of the match and the significance of the moment. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy initially left the field following the call,but later returned,reportedly encouraged by captain Sadio Mané to rejoin his teammates and complete the game.
Former Nigeria international Efan Ekoku, providing commentary for E4, criticized the Senegalese team’s reaction, stating that disputing the referee’s decision in such a manner was inappropriate. “You cannot do that.However aggrieved you feel at it you have got to let the referee and the rules [make a decision]… I have got some sympathy, but this is not a good look,” Ekoku said.
Match Context and Refereeing
The penalty decision ultimately proved decisive, allowing Morocco to secure a victory in the tournament. The incident has ignited debate regarding the standard of refereeing at the Africa Cup of Nations and the use of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in such crucial moments.As of January 18, 2026, there have been no official statements from the confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding a review of the referee’s performance or the VAR protocol used during the final.CAF Official Website
Player Reactions
Sadio Mané’s efforts to rally his teammates demonstrate the team’s resilience despite the contentious circumstances.The incident highlights the emotional intensity of the Africa cup of Nations and the pressures faced by players and coaches in high-stakes matches. FIFA Official Website