Senegal Players May Face Four to Six Months' Ban, World Cup Participation in Question

January 19th, 2026: People often make mistakes in the heat of the moment. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw did nothing intentionally wrong, but he could not accept the referee’s penalty decision against his team in the Africa Cup of Nations final. In protest, he ordered his players to leave the field. Except for Sadio Mané, all the players followed the coach’s instruction.

Later, the Senegal team returned to the field and went on to win the Africa Cup of Nations title. However, the incident created controversy, and Senegal may now face serious punishment.

Many believe Thiaw’s action was disrespectful to African football. Apart from this incident, Senegal fans also clashed with police in the stands at the Prince Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. According to European media reports, the Senegalese Football Federation and those involved could face heavy penalties. However, there is no threat to Senegal’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As per the Africa Cup of Nations rules, the Senegal team, officials, and fans could be fined between ₹45 lakh and ₹90 lakh for the disruption caused during the final (equivalent to €50,000–€100,000). In addition, the coaches and players involved could face a ban of four to six months, which may affect their availability for international matches, including the World Cup, starting on June 11 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

FIFA Condemns Chaos After Africa Cup of Nations Final

Hours after the final, FIFA President Gianni Infantino issued a statement. He congratulated the champions Senegal and said, “Unfortunately, we have witnessed unacceptable scenes on the pitch and in the stands. We strongly condemn the behaviour of some fans, as well as some Senegalese players and staff. Leaving the pitch in this way is completely unacceptable, and violence is unacceptable in our game. It is absolutely inappropriate.”

The statement added, “Today’s horrific scenes must be condemned and must never be repeated. Such incidents have no place in football, and I hope that the relevant CAF disciplinary body will take appropriate action.”

Drama on the Field

The final ended goalless in regulation time, and extra time was dramatic. In the 98th minute, Morocco’s Brahim Diaz was fouled by Senegal defender El Hadji Malik Diouf, and referee Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw became furious after Ismaila Sarr's goal was disallowed. He then ordered his team off the field in protest of the penalty decision.

Despite the stalemate, Senegalese star Sadio Mané pleaded with his teammates to continue playing. The Senegal players returned to the field, and Brahim Diaz missed his penalty. Pape Gaye scored the winning goal for Senegal in the fourth minute of extra time.

CAF Promises Action

The governing body of African football (CAF) said that those responsible for the chaos in the final would be adequately punished.

CAF did not directly blame Morocco or Senegal for the incident. The organization said in a statement: “CAF strongly condemns the unsportsmanlike conduct during the match, particularly those targeting the referees and the organizers. CAF is reviewing all video footage and will forward it to the relevant agencies to take appropriate action against the culprits.”