The match, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, was marred by controversy and tension after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review. Senegal players briefly walked off the pitch in protest, and angry fans attempted to storm the field, leading to chaotic scenes that interrupted the match for nearly 20 minutes.
Infantino Calls Out Players and Fans
In a statement posted on his official Instagram page, Infantino said the behaviour of the Senegalese team and some supporters was unacceptable and must be condemned.
“We strongly condemn the behaviour of some ‘supporters’ as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner,” he said.
He added that violence has no place in football and that such actions send the wrong message to fans worldwide.
“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport; it is simply not right,” Infantino stated.
What Sparked the Chaos?
The incident followed a controversial injury-time penalty awarded to Morocco after a VAR check for a challenge on Brahim Diaz. Senegal players protested the decision and left the field briefly, while some fans threw objects as they attempted to enter the pitch.
Sadio Mane, Senegal’s former Liverpool star, remained on the field and urged his teammates to return for the penalty kick. Diaz then missed the penalty after attempting a “panenka” kick, saved by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
The Senegal players’ frustration also stemmed from a disputed decision earlier in the match, when a potential goal for Senegal was disallowed for what many perceived as a soft foul.
Match Delayed, Morocco Wins in Extra Time
The game was halted for almost 20 minutes before play resumed. In the fourth minute of extra time, Pape Gueye scored a stunning goal to secure a 1-0 victory for Morocco, who celebrated a historic triumph.
Infantino Warns Teams to Respect Officials
Infantino praised Morocco for a “fantastic tournament” and praised the country for its hosting ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which it will co-host. However, he emphasized that teams must respect match officials and compete within the laws of the game.
“We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play,” he said. “Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game, because anything less puts the very essence of football at risk.”
He also stressed that players and teams must act responsibly and set a positive example for fans around the world.
“The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated. I reiterated that they have no place in football and I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF will take the appropriate measures,” Infantino said.