FIFA President, Gianni Infantino has congratulated Senegal on winning the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and praised Morocco for hosting a successful tournament, while issuing a strong condemnation of the chaotic scenes that followed the final in Rabat.
However, Infantino’s statement has also drawn scrutiny after he failed to address several controversial incidents that emerged during and after the final, raising renewed questions about accountability and consistency in dealing with misconduct at Africa’s flagship football event.
“Champions of Africa” – Infantino Praises Senegal
In an official message released following the final, Infantino commended Senegal for their historic achievement, singling out both the team and the country’s football leadership.
“Congratulations to Senegal on being crowned champions of Africa and winners of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco in Rabat.”
“My best wishes as well to Abdoulaye Fall, President of the Senegalese Football Association, and to everyone involved in this success.”
Senegal defeated hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time, securing their second AFCON title in three editions.
Morocco Lauded as Hosts and Runners-Up
Infantino also paid tribute to Morocco’s performance on the pitch and their organisation of the tournament, describing the North African nation as exemplary hosts.
“Well done also to Morocco on a fantastic tournament, both as runners-up and exceptional hosts.”
“My sincere thanks to His Majesty King Mohammed VI for his constant support of football, and to Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and FIFA Council member, for his leadership and commitment to the game.”
Morocco reached the final after eliminating Nigeria on penalties in the semi-final and were widely praised for the infrastructure of the tournament.
Strong Condemnation of Post-Final Violence
Infantino did not, however, shy away from addressing the unrest that followed the final whistle.
He strongly condemned the behaviour of those involved in the disturbances on the pitch and in the stands.
“Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands.”
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members.”
“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right.”
Scenes after the match included confrontations involving players, coaching staff, supporters and security personnel, casting a shadow over Senegal’s triumph.
Respect for Officials and the Laws of the Game
Infantino further emphasized the need for respect toward referees and adherence to football’s regulations, warning that failure to do so threatens the integrity of the sport.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play.”
“Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”
Call for CAF Disciplinary Action
The FIFA president stressed that teams and players have a responsibility to act as role models and confirmed that disciplinary action is expected.
“It is also the responsibility of teams and players to act responsibly and set the right example for fans in the stadiums and millions watching around the world.”
“The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated.”
“I reiterate that they have no place in football and I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF will take the appropriate measures.”
Notable Omissions Raise Eyebrows
Infantino’s statement did not address several key controversies that have dominated post-final discussions.
He made no reference to the conduct of Moroccan ball boys, who were accused of repeatedly throwing Édouard Mendy’s towel during the final, an incident that sparked confrontations involving Senegalese players and staff.
Infantino also did not condemn the actions of Moroccan players alleged to have been involved in the same towel-snatching incidents, nor did he comment on reports that Moroccan stadium security assaulted Senegalese fans following the match.
Read More: “They Took the Towels, Senegal Took the Trophy”: From Nwabali to Mendy – The AFCON Towel Incidents That Referees Couldn’t Control
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A Familiar Pattern From Earlier in the Tournament
The omissions have drawn further attention because similar allegations surfaced earlier in the competition.
During the AFCON semi-final, Moroccan ball boys were accused of throwing Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali’s towel and even bananas at him, incidents that went unaddressed at the time.
The lack of explicit acknowledgment has intensified debate over whether misconduct was addressed selectively during the tournament.
