Senegal have been slapped with severe sanctions following the disgraceful incidents during the Africa Cup of Nations final, with manager Pape Thiaw receiving a five-match suspension alongside two of his players facing similar punishments. The penalties come in addition to hefty financial sanctions imposed by CAF, African football’s governing body. They have been penalised for multiple infractions, including unsporting behaviour and misconduct, with the total fine reaching £440,000.
Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, who were embroiled in the late drama, have each received two-match bans. The controversy erupted when runners-up Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty. West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf was adjudged to have fouled Brahim Diaz, prompting referee Jean-Jacques Ndala to consult VAR before pointing to the penalty spot.
Following an extensive 17-minute stoppage, they eventually emerged, but Morocco squandered their golden opportunity as the Real Madrid forward attempted a Panenka penalty, only for former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to deny him before Senegal secured victory in extra time. Nevertheless, the unsavoury spectacle had already captured global headlines across the continent.
Thiaw has subsequently acknowledged his mistake in leading his squad off the pitch. He said: “I apologise for the football. After reflecting on it I made them come back [on the pitch] – you can react in the heat of the moment.
“We accept the errors of the referee. We shouldn’t have done it but it’s done and now we present our apologies to football.”
Thiaw’s fury, particularly towards the official, stemmed from the referee’s decision to rule out a goal by Crystal Palace striker Ismaila Sarr, who had converted from close range earlier in the match. Morocco manager Walid Regragui described Senegal’s behaviour as “shameful”.
Mane was praised for his part in restoring calm as he declined to participate in the walk-off demonstrations, instead taking a pivotal role in persuading the players to return to the field.
He said: “Football is something special, the world was watching, so we have to give a good image for football. I think it would be crazy to not play this game because what, the referee gave a penalty and we go out of the game? I think that would be the worst thing especially in African football. I’d rather lose than this kind of thing happen to our football.”