The Confederation of African Football has condemned unacceptable behaviour by players and officials during the AFCON 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal.
CAF says it is reviewing all available footage and will refer the matter to relevant bodies. The incident has overshadowed the final and sparked renewed focus on discipline in African football.
The incident occurred during the highly anticipated final played in Rabat, a match meant to celebrate the pinnacle of African football but which instead ended with controversy off the pitch.
In a statement released on Monday, CAF said it “condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials” that took place during the final.
While the governing body did not provide specific details of the incidents, it made clear that it viewed the conduct as a serious breach of standards expected at CAF competitions.
The organisation emphasised that such actions undermine the integrity of the game, particularly at a flagship event watched by millions across the continent and beyond.
CAF stressed that it strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organizers.
This wording suggests that match officials may have been subjected to pressure or misconduct during or after the final, an issue that has long been sensitive in African football.
The AFCON final, the culmination of weeks of competition, is typically regarded as a celebration of talent, unity and sportsmanship.
However, incidents involving disputes with referees or confrontations with officials have, in the past, drawn criticism and sanctions from CAF.
By singling out behaviour directed at referees and organisers, the body signalled that respect for match officials remains a core concern.
CAF also confirmed that disciplinary processes are already under way. “CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty,” the statement said.
This indicates that video evidence from the match will form the basis of investigations and potential sanctions.
Such referrals could lead to a range of consequences, including fines, suspensions or other disciplinary measures against individuals or teams found to have violated CAF regulations.
The phrase “competent bodies” suggests that the matter may be handled by CAF’s disciplinary or ethics committees, which are responsible for enforcing codes of conduct.
The governing body’s swift response reflects a desire to assert authority and maintain discipline at its tournaments.
CAF has, in recent years, faced growing scrutiny over officiating standards, crowd control and post-match conduct, particularly during high-stakes fixtures.
Although CAF did not name the players or officials involved, the statement makes clear that accountability is a priority.
By publicly condemning the behaviour and announcing a review, CAF appears keen to reassure fans, sponsors and stakeholders that it will not tolerate actions that detract from the credibility of its competitions.
The final between Morocco and Senegal was one of the most closely watched matches of the tournament, featuring two of Africa’s strongest footballing nations.
Any controversy arising from such a high-profile fixture risks overshadowing the sporting achievement on the pitch.
CAF’s intervention serves as a reminder that, beyond results and trophies, conduct and respect remain central to the game.
As the organisation concluded through its communications department, it remains firm in its stance against misconduct and committed to taking appropriate action once its review is complete.
For now, African football’s governing body has drawn a clear line, signalling that behaviour during AFCON matches, especially in a final, will be judged against the highest standards expected of the sport.
