Dare Babalola
Senegal’s dramatic walk-off protest in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco has drawn criticism from FIFA.
A spot kick was awarded to the Atlas Lions in second-half stoppage time, following a lengthy VAR check for a challenge on Brahmin Diaz by Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf.
Diaz led the protests following that incident, vehemently calling for a penalty to be given as the Moroccan bench joined in. After the referee ruled in Morocco’s favour, the Senegal camp was infuriated and fighting also broke out in the stands.
Play was halted for about 20 minutes, and Senegal’s players walked off the pitch.
Reacting, FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned “some Senegal players” for the “unacceptable scenes” during Sunday’s AFCON final.
“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,” said Infantino in a statement sent to AFP.
Earlier, Walid Regragui, Morocco’s coach, said, “The image we gave of African football was rather shameful. Having to stop the game for more than 10 minutes with the world watching is not very classy.”
Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw apologised for the conduct after the match while Infantino, who was present at the stadium, expressed his condemnation hours later.
