President Gianni Infantino has criticised “some Senegalese players” for abandoning the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final, describing their behaviour as “unacceptable” and urging adherence to the rules of football.

The incident happened late in regular time, after Morocco was granted a penalty following a VAR review for a challenge on Brahim Diaz.

The walk-off overshadowed Morocco’s final 1-0 triumph in extra time, scored by Pape Gueye after Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Diaz’s penalty shot.

Infantino emphasised that violence and unsportsmanlike conduct have no place in football and warned that disciplinary action would be taken.

Infantino hailed Morocco as hosts and runners-up, but stressed that teams must respect match officials’ decisions.

“Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk,” he said.

The FIFA President also emphasised the importance of players setting a good example for stadium supporters and millions of viewers around the world.

Sadio Mane, Senegal’s former Liverpool star, remained on the pitch throughout the protest and encouraged his teammates to return, but emotions rose in the seats as several fans attempted to storm the pitch, clashing with security staff. The contest was delayed for approximately 20 minutes before it resumed.

Infantino called the events a “wrong message” to global fans and reiterated that similar scenes must not recur, ahead of the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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