Senegal withdrew from their match against Morocco and then returned 15 minutes later during the Africa Cup of Nations final

Senegal withdrew from their match against Morocco and then returned 15 minutes later during the Africa Cup of Nations final

FIFA president condemns Senegal's behavior: 'It is unacceptable to leave the pitch in such a malicious manner'  The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, held on Sunday evening, January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, sparked considerable controversy after the Senegalese players temporarily walked off the pitch in protest against a penalty awarded to Morocco in the eighth minute of stoppage time. Despite Senegal's return after 15 minutes, Ibrahim Diaz's missed penalty, and Senegal's eventual victory with a goal by Pape Gueye in extra time, the chaotic scenes both on and off the field prompted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to issue a strongly worded statement of condemnation. Infantino's Statement: Double Condemnation of Players and Fans Infantino posted a message on his official Instagram account, stating: "We strongly condemn the behavior of some fans, as well as some Senegalese players and staff." "Leaving the pitch in th…