CAF Hands Heavy Fines to Senegal and Morocco After AFCON Final Chaos

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed heavy financial penalties on Senegal and Morocco following incidents of improper conduct and violations of competition regulations during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

Senegal has been fined KSh79 million, while Morocco will pay KSh40 million, underscoring CAF’s determination to enforce discipline at Africa’s biggest football tournament.

In a statement released after a disciplinary review, CAF said the sanctions followed investigations into several incidents that occurred before, during, and after the highly charged final.

While CAF did not go into exhaustive detail on every infringement, it cited breaches of CAF competition rules, failure to control team officials and players and conduct that undermined the spirit of fair play expected at a continental showpiece.

Senegal, who were more heavily penalised, were found to have committed multiple violations.

CAF’s disciplinary panel concluded that certain actions by members of the Senegalese delegation amounted to improper conduct, including confrontations with match officials and failure to adhere to post match protocols.

The governing body said such behaviour could not be tolerated, especially on a stage watched by millions across Africa and beyond.

Morocco, meanwhile, were fined KSh40 million for related but less severe infractions.

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CAF noted that although the violations did not reach the same level as those attributed to Senegal, they still constituted a clear breach of established regulations.

The panel emphasised that all teams, regardless of stature or history, are subject to the same disciplinary standards.

The 2025 AFCON final had been billed as a celebration of African football, but it was overshadowed by moments of tension and disorder that drew criticism from fans and analysts alike.

CAF said the fines were meant not only as punishment but also as a deterrent, sending a strong message ahead of future tournaments.

Football stakeholders across the continent have offered mixed reactions to the decision.

Some have welcomed CAF’s firm stance, arguing that stricter enforcement is necessary to protect match officials and uphold the integrity of the game.

Others feel the fines are steep but acknowledge that discipline is essential for the growth and professionalism of African football.

CAF concluded by reaffirming its commitment to maintaining order, respect, and professionalism at all its competitions, warning that similar or harsher sanctions could follow for repeat offences.