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World football governing body FIFA has reportedly clarified its position on the controversy that trailed the chaotic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, as the Confederation of African Football (CAF) prepares to announce its disciplinary verdict on Senegal.

The AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco descended into disorder following a controversial late penalty awarded to the hosts by referee Jean-Jacques Ndala in the closing seconds of regulation time. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The decision sparked outrage from the Senegalese technical bench, with head coach Pape Thiaw reportedly instructing his players to leave the pitch and head for the dressing room. The protest forced a stoppage that lasted approximately 17 minutes.

Play only resumed after intervention from Senegal captain Sadio Mané, who persuaded his teammates to return to the field and complete the match.

Morocco’s Brahim Díaz subsequently missed the penalty, sending the final into extra time. Senegal later sealed a 1–0 victory through Pape Gueye, securing their second AFCON title.

Despite the eventual conclusion of the match, CAF condemned the scenes surrounding the protest, describing the conduct as “unacceptable behaviour.” The continental football body immediately opened an investigation through its Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, which met on Tuesday to review submissions related to the incident.

CAF’s final verdict has yet to be announced.

Amid growing speculation over possible sanctions, Senegalese journalist Mamadou Ndiaye disclosed that FIFA has already communicated its stance on the matter.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Ndiaye stated that FIFA would not impose any international sanctions on Senegal, regardless of CAF’s eventual decision.

“While CAF has still not made a decision after the turbulent final, FIFA has already clarified its position: no international sanctions against Senegal,” Ndiaye wrote.

“Any potential sanction from CAF will remain strictly African. There is no threat whatsoever to the Lions’ participation in the World Cup.”

Although Senegal’s international standing appears unaffected, reports indicate that CAF may still impose heavy disciplinary measures on individuals involved in the incident, including head coach Pape Thiaw.

CAF is expected to announce its final ruling in the coming days.

FalseProphet1:
I see FIFA's clarification on Nigeria being announced by next month. I see Nigeria going to the world cup.

This I have seen.

Drsnives:
They might stripp them of the title

pook:
Is it possible for Nigeria to still go? How?

FalseProphet1:
Patience friend. By next month you'll be shocked.

PHIPEX:
And give it to who, Morocco? CAF is confused

DoctorAyukebot:
I only see two confused people here
You and the guy you quoted

PHIPEX:
And you quoting me has made you the 3rd confused person

FalseProphet1:
I see FIFA's clarification on Nigeria being announced by next month. I see Nigeria going to the world cup.

This I have seen.

eyesoflagos:
https://eyesoflagos.com/2026/01/28/afcon-2025-fifa-caf-verdict-senegal-controversy/

Popson0424:
Good news....let's go Western Africa!

spiSeyi:
Morocco should be heavily sanctioned because football governing body frown against fans encroachment. Just imagine that ball boy is dragging towel with a professional goal keeper, disturbing them during the game
It's not that Rivers United can't play CAF champions league in their PH stadium but the same CAF moved them to Akwa Ibom bcs of likely fans encroachment.
Hakimi , and Morocco should pay heavily for their animalistic behavior why the Senegalese coach should be suspended accordingly (4-5 match ban)

FalseProphet1:
I see FIFA's clarification on Nigeria being announced by next month. I see Nigeria going to the world cup.

This I have seen.