Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has been banned for five Confederation of African Football (CAF) matches following the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco on January 18, 2026. CAF cited “unsporting conduct” and “bringing the game into disrepute” during the decider in Rabat, which Senegal won 1-0 after extra time.
Senegalese forwards Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, both English Premier League players, were handed two-match bans for “unsporting behaviour towards the referee.” The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) was fined $615,000 for multiple offences, including player and staff misconduct.
Moroccan forward Ismael Saibari received a three-match ban and $100,000 fine, while captain Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two matches. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was fined $200,000 over the conduct of stadium ball boys, and an additional $100,000 fine was imposed for interference with the VAR review. Moroccan supporters’ use of lasers to distract Senegalese players led to another $15,000 fine.
The final turned tense in the closing minutes of regular time when a Sarr goal was disallowed for a foul on Hakimi. Morocco were awarded a penalty after Brahim Diaz was fouled, sparking Senegalese protests. Video footage showed Thiaw gesturing toward his players, which was widely seen as instructing them to leave the field. Most of the team went to the dressing room, but Sadio Mane stayed and later convinced his teammates to return.
Morocco missed the delayed penalty, and Senegal went on to win in extra time with a goal from Pape Gueye, securing their second AFCON title.
