Moroccan Football Federation Lodges Complaint Against Senegal After AFCON Final Walkout
By TUW
The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has officially filed a complaint with both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, following the Senegal national team’s controversial decision to walk off the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final against Morocco.
The final, held at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, was marked by tension and controversy. The game remained goalless deep into injury time, when a late penalty was awarded to Morocco after a VAR review. While the decision was widely discussed, the FRMF described it as correct and in line with the rules of the game. In response to the decision, Senegal’s players left the field briefly, prompting a temporary suspension of the match and sparking widespread debate across the football community.
Despite the walkout, Senegal eventually returned to the pitch, and the match continued into extra time. Senegal managed to secure a 1‑0 victory, with a decisive goal in extra time that clinched their second consecutive AFCON title. However, the incident overshadowed what should have been a celebratory conclusion to the tournament.
In its official statement, the FRMF emphasized that Senegal’s walkout disrupted the flow of the match and negatively impacted the competition’s integrity. The federation highlighted that such behavior during a major final cannot go unchecked, and it intends to pursue all disciplinary and legal measures available under CAF and FIFA regulations to ensure that the incident is formally reviewed and addressed.
The Moroccan federation also expressed appreciation for its supporters, praising the fans for maintaining high energy and sportsmanship throughout the tournament, despite the on-field controversy. The FRMF stressed that the complaint is not only about protecting the rights of Moroccan players but also about upholding the principles of fair play and proper conduct in African football.
CAF has confirmed that it is reviewing the events surrounding the final and evaluating all reports and match footage. The organization stated that any conduct undermining the authority of match officials or the rules of the game is unacceptable and will be subject to disciplinary action. Similarly, FIFA has noted the importance of respecting match officials and adhering to the sport’s regulations, reinforcing the need for professional behavior at all levels of competition.
Reactions to the incident have been mixed. While some observers criticized Senegal for responding emotionally to refereeing decisions, others acknowledged the team’s frustrations and highlighted broader concerns raised prior to the match regarding preparations, accommodations, and other logistical matters. Regardless, the FRMF has maintained that its formal complaint is strictly about enforcing the rules and protecting the integrity of the final.
The AFCON 2025 final will be remembered not only for Senegal’s victory but also for the controversy that erupted in its final moments. The complaint lodged by Morocco signals that CAF and FIFA will need to carefully examine governance and disciplinary frameworks to ensure that similar incidents are prevented in the future, safeguarding the credibility of Africa’s premier football competition.
