CAF has issued major sanctions against Senegal and Morocco after disciplinary breaches in the AFCON 2025 final. The Disciplinary Board found multiple violations of the CAF Disciplinary Code. The rulings target federations, players, and officials for conduct that CAF said damaged the game’s integrity.
CAF sanctions AFCON 2025: summary of penalties
CAF suspended Senegal head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw for five official CAF matches. The board fined him USD 100,000 for conduct that CAF described as damaging to the sport’s image. Two Senegal players, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, received two‑match suspensions each for unsporting behaviour toward the referee.
Financial penalties for Senegal
The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football faces heavy fines. CAF imposed USD 300,000 for supporters’ misconduct. The federation also received USD 300,000 for unsporting behaviour by players and staff. CAF added a USD 15,000 fine after five Senegal players received yellow cards in the final. In total, Senegal’s penalties amount to USD 615,000.
Sanctions against Morocco and match‑day staff
CAF also sanctioned the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football. The FRMF received USD 200,000 for ball boys’ misconduct. CAF fined the federation USD 100,000 after players and staff entered the VAR review area and obstructed officials. CAF added a USD 15,000 fine over reports of supporters using laser devices. Morocco’s total fines reached USD 315,000.
Player suspensions and fines for Morocco
Achraf Hakimi received a two‑match suspension, with one match suspended for a year. Ismaël Saibari received a three‑match ban and a USD 100,000 fine for unsporting behaviour. CAF listed other breaches involving match‑day operations and staff conduct.
Appeal rejected and title confirmation
Morocco lodged a formal protest alleging violations of AFCON regulations. CAF’s Disciplinary Board rejected the protest in full. The board dismissed claims that Senegal abandoned the match. CAF therefore confirmed Senegal as AFCON 2025 champions.
What this means going forward
CAF said it will enforce its code to protect fair play and match integrity. Federations now face financial and competitive consequences. Players and officials must expect stricter scrutiny at future tournaments.
