Dakar, Senegal – In the wake of a dramatic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has extended heartfelt appreciation to Morocco for its role as host, offering a diplomatic hand amidst the lingering controversy that marred the tournament’s climax.
A Diplomatic Overture Amidst Sporting Triumph
Addressing the victorious Lions of Teranga at the presidential palace in Dakar on Tuesday, President Faye conveyed profound gratitude to the Kingdom of Morocco. “On behalf of the Senegalese people, I thank His Majesty King Mohammed VI and the brotherly people of Morocco for their hospitality, care, and attention toward our delegation and all teams involved,” President Faye stated.
His remarks followed Senegal’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco in Rabat, securing their second continental title. Despite the intense rivalry on the pitch, Faye commended Morocco’s national team for their “remarkable journey” throughout the tournament, emphasizing the spirit of fair play that ideally underpins the relationship between the two nations. He echoed earlier calls from both governments to view the final not merely as a football match, but as a “celebration of fraternity.”
The Controversial Climax: A Final Marred by Chaos
However, the president’s words of camaraderie arrive at a time when the closing moments of the AFCON final continue to fuel tension and debate. Deep into stoppage time, a contentious late penalty was awarded to host nation Morocco after a VAR review. This decision was met with vehement protest from Senegal’s players and coaching staff.
Frustration escalated following the penalty call and an earlier disallowed goal. Senegal’s coach, Pape Thiaw, controversially ordered his team off the pitch, plunging the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium in Rabat into shock and confusion. For approximately 15 minutes, the game was halted as players headed towards the tunnel, and tensions flared dangerously among Senegalese fans in the stands, with some attempting to breach security barriers. Stewards and security forces struggled to contain the volatile situation, as some fans reportedly attacked staff with chairs.
It was Senegal’s captain, Sadio Mané, who ultimately intervened, convincing his teammates to return to play. Upon resumption, Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz missed the subsequent ‘Panenka’ penalty against Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, pushing the match into extra time. In the 94th minute, Pape Gueye delivered the decisive blow, scoring the winning goal for Senegal.
Football Authorities Weigh In on the Unacceptable Scenes
The chaotic conclusion to the final has drawn sharp criticism from global football bodies. FIFA President Gianni Infantino unequivocally condemned the events, both on and off the field, labeling the walk-off and violent fan behavior as “unacceptable” in football. He underscored the critical importance of respecting officials and the rules of the game to uphold the sport’s integrity.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced it is actively reviewing the incidents, with potential disciplinary proceedings on the horizon. Meanwhile, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation has declared its intention to pursue legal action regarding Senegal’s walk-off, asserting that it disrupted the normal flow and integrity of the match.
Navigating Diplomacy and Disciplinary Action
As the dust settles on a memorable yet controversial AFCON, the dual narrative of presidential gratitude and ongoing disciplinary investigations highlights the complex interplay of sport, diplomacy, and national pride. While President Faye’s message seeks to reinforce bilateral ties, the footballing world awaits the outcomes of official inquiries, which will undoubtedly shape the future conduct and regulations of major tournaments on the continent.
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