Although Senegal won the Africa Cup of Nations, the tournament finale was far from drama-free. From protesting referee decisions to leaving the field mid-match, Senegal created quite a spectacle. Despite all the controversy, Senegal defeated Morocco to lift the trophy. However, the aftermath has now caught up with the team’s coach, Pape Thiaw.
Also Read | Barcelona hammer Copenhagen to seal last-16 Champions League spot
The African Football Confederation has announced that Thiaw has been banned for five matches for withdrawing his team during the final. He has also been fined $100,000. Additionally, the Senegal Football Federation has been fined $615,000 for the poor behaviour of the country’s players.
What Sparked the Controversy?
The drama began in injury time when Senegal’s goal was cancelled for a foul. Just a few minutes later, Senegal defender El Hadji Diouf pushed Morocco’s Brahim Diaz in the box, prompting Morocco to demand a penalty. After a lengthy VAR review, the referee awarded the penalty, which sparked anger in the Senegal camp. In protest, coach Pape Thiaw signalled for his players to leave the field, halting the game for nearly 20 minutes. Eventually, team captain Sadio Mane convinced his teammates to return and continue the match.
Also Read | 'Big game, big watch', Tom Brady dons $650K Patek Philippe Aquanaut at NFC Championship
FIFA Response and Punishment
FIFA President condemned the incident, stating that leaving the field like this is unacceptable. “Violence in the game will not be given importance. Whatever they did was not right,” he said. Following this, the African Football Confederation issued the official punishments against the coach and the federation.
