Pape Thiaw: Senegal Manager Given Five‑Match Ban After AFCON Final Chaos
Pape Thiaw banned 5 matches for AFCON final chaos
Senegal’s head coach Pape Bouna Thiaw has been hit with a five‑match ban and a hefty fine following the controversial and chaotic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against hosts Morocco. The decision was announced on Thursday, 29 January 2026 , by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board after reviewing incidents that marred the climax of the tournament in Rabat. Chaos in Rabat: What Happened in the AFCON Final The AFCON 2025 final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium was destined for drama. With the score at 0–0 deep in stoppage time , several key decisions sparked tensions: Senegal appeared to score, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Shortly after, Morocco were awarded a penalty following a VAR review – a call that infuriated the Senegal camp. In response to the penalty award, Thiaw was captured on TV gesturing and seemingly instructing his players to leave the field in protest. Most of the Senegal squad walked off the pitch and retreated to the dressing r…