Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has issued a public apology after a dramatic late‑night protest in the AFCON final, admitting he regretted ordering his players off the pitch when a contentious stoppage‑time penalty was awarded to Morocco.
Calling the episode “unfortunate,” Thiaw said he “apologise[s] for football” as he reflected on a moment of heat that threatened to overshadow the game.
What unfolded in Rabat
The final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium erupted in controversy when VAR prompted a late penalty for Morocco in added time.
The decision followed a chaotic sequence: a disallowed Senegal goal, a VAR check, and then the spot‑kick call — that sent tempers flaring and briefly pushed Senegal’s players to the brink of a walk‑off.
Captain Sadio Mané ultimately steadied his teammates, and the match resumed; the penalty was missed, and Senegal went on to lift the trophy in extra time.
The apology and the tone of regret
Thiaw was blunt in his contrition. “I didn't appreciate at all that I told my players to leave the field. I apologize for football,” he said, explaining that the instruction came in the heat of the moment and that, after reflection, he had the squad return to play. His words read as remorse rather than defiance, and he singled out Mané’s calming influence for helping restore order when it mattered most.
Reactions and immediate fallout
Public reaction was swift and divided. Some praised Thiaw’s later apology and lauded Mané’s leadership for averting a full‑blown crisis.
Others warned the initial protest risked heavy sanctions and tarnished the spectacle of a major final. Pundits and fans debated the fine line between passionate defence of a team and actions that could be seen as unsporting or destabilising to the competition’s integrity.
Sporting and regulatory implications
Disciplinary risk: A threatened walk‑off can trigger formal CAF investigations and sanctions; Thiaw’s apology and the team’s return may have softened immediate consequences but do not rule out review.
VAR scrutiny: The episode has intensified calls for clearer VAR protocols and better communication between officials and teams to prevent similar flashpoints.
Public memory: Even with Senegal’s victory intact, the controversy will linger and could prompt CAF to issue clearer guidance on protests and on‑field dissent.
What to watch next
CAF response: Official statements and any disciplinary notices are likely as match reports and footage are reviewed.
Federation follow‑up: Senegal’s FA may release further comments, outline internal reviews, or reinforce sportsmanship messaging.
Longer‑term debate: Expect renewed calls for VAR transparency and referee training aimed at reducing the risk of late‑game controversies that threaten the spirit of the sport.
