Senegalese jubilate after the winning of AFCON 2025
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Fears that Senegal could face exclusion from the forthcoming FIFA World Cup have largely been put to rest, with football authorities clarifying that any sanctions arising from the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final will not extend beyond the continent.
Speculation about a possible World Cup ban intensified after FIFA President Gianni Infantino publicly condemned Senegal’s conduct during the controversial AFCON 2025 final against hosts Morocco in Rabat. However, officials have since moved to reassure fans that the Teranga Lions’ place at the global showpiece is not under threat.
“While CAF has still not decided on the turbulent final, FIFA has already clarified its position: no international sanctions against Senegal,” said football analyst Ndiaye. “Any potential sanction from CAF will remain strictly African. There is no threat whatsoever to the Lions’ participation in the World Cup.”
Senegal defeated Morocco 2-1 after extra time on January 18 to clinch their second continental title, but the match descended into controversy in stoppage time. Tensions flared when DR Congo referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty for a foul by El Hadji Malick Diouf on Brahim Diaz.
In protest, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players to walk off the pitch, sparking scenes of confusion and raising fears of possible disciplinary repercussions. Order was eventually restored after captain Sadio Mane intervened and persuaded his teammates to resume the match.
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw, who ordered the players off the pitch during the contested match
Morocco’s Diaz missed the penalty, and Senegal went on to seal victory in extra time through Pape Gueye, but the dramatic ending overshadowed the football and prompted investigations by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
On January 27, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) appeared before CAF’s disciplinary committee to respond to questions arising from the match officials’ reports and a formal complaint lodged by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation.
In a statement, the FSF confirmed that it was represented by its secretary general and legal counsel Seydou Diagne, while head coach Thiaw and players Ismailla Sarr and Iliman Ndiaye also appeared to give their accounts. CAF is expected to deliver its decision on possible sanctions within 48 hours.
Importantly for Senegal, any punishment is expected to be limited to fines, suspensions or warnings under CAF’s jurisdiction. FIFA’s clear stance has effectively ruled out the extreme and unlikely scenario of a World Cup ban.
The disciplinary process is being overseen by Kenyan lawyer Jane Njeri Onyango, the vice-president of CAF’s disciplinary committee, who has been elevated to lead the case after committee president Ousmane Kane of Senegal stepped aside to avoid a conflict of interest.
Beyond Senegal’s conduct, the committee is also examining wider issues surrounding the final, including reported security lapses at the stadium and an incident involving goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel.
As CAF deliberates, Senegalese fans can breathe easier: while consequences may follow the dramatic AFCON final, the Teranga Lions’ World Cup dream remains firmly intact.
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