By Abiola Olawale
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has formally written to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, demanding action over Senegal’s dramatic walk-off during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final on Sunday, January 18, 2026, in Rabat.
In an official statement released on Monday, the FRMF condemned Senegal’s temporary withdrawal from the pitch following a controversial stoppage-time penalty awarded to Morocco, describing the incident as disruptive to the match’s normal flow and the players’ performance.
The federation emphasized that the penalty decision—confirmed after VAR review—was deemed correct by football experts, and it plans to pursue legal procedures with both CAF and FIFA to address the walk-off and accompanying events.
“The Royal Moroccan Football Federation announces that it will pursue legal action with CAF and FIFA regarding the Senegalese national team’s withdrawal from the final match against Morocco and the subsequent events following the referee’s decision to award a penalty kick, a decision deemed correct by all experts,” the statement read.
Beyond the controversy, the RMFF expressed appreciation to Moroccan supporters for their backing throughout the tournament.
“Furthermore, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation extends its sincere gratitude to all Moroccan fans who remained loyal to the national team through their massive attendance and exemplary support in all of the national team’s matches and other tournaments. The Federation also thanks everyone who contributed to the success of this continental championship.”
The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final between hosts Morocco and Senegal ended with Senegal claiming a 1-0 victory in extra time, thanks to a stunning strike from Pape Gueye in the 94th minute.
However, the match will be remembered more for its extraordinary controversy than the result.
With the score locked at 0-0 deep into second-half stoppage time, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after VAR advised a review of a challenge by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Morocco’s Brahim Diaz. Incensed by the call—coming shortly after Senegal had a goal disallowed—Senegal coach Pape Thiaw led his players off the pitch in protest, sparking heated confrontations on the touchline and chaos in the stands, where some fans clashed with security.
After a delay of around 14-16 minutes, with Sadio Mane notably urging his teammates to return, the players re-emerged. Diaz stepped up for the spot-kick but fluffed a weak Panenka attempt straight into the arms of Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending the game to extra time.
Senegal capitalized on the momentum shift, securing their second AFCON title in five years
