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Senegal Win AFCON in Chaotic Rabat Final as FIFA Slams Walk-Off

FIFA labeled Senegal’s walk-off unacceptable, prompting scrutiny of discipline after the chaotic finish.

Overview

  • Pape Gueye decided the final with a left-footed strike early in extra time, securing a 1-0 win over host Morocco.
  • Stoppage time brought two flashpoints: Ismaïla Sarr’s 92' goal was annulled, then VAR confirmed a Morocco penalty for a Malick Diouf foul on Brahim Diaz.
  • On coach Pape Thiaw’s instruction Senegal briefly left the field in protest before captain Sadio Mané led the team back to resume play.
  • After a prolonged delay, Brahim Diaz attempted a chipped penalty that Édouard Mendy saved, sending the match to extra time.
  • Thiaw apologized for ordering the walk-off, Gianni Infantino condemned on-field and crowd disorder as unacceptable, and unverified claims about an intentional penalty miss circulated as debate grew over possible disciplinary follow-up.