By DailySports Nigeria on January 19, 2026

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has delivered a damning verdict on Senegal's conduct during the AFCON 2025 final.

In a rare and scathing intervention, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has delivered a damning verdict on the conduct of the Senegalese national team during the AFCON 2025 final.

While the Teranga Lions ultimately secured their second continental title with a 1–0 extra-time win , the FIFA chief declared that the "ugly scenes" witnessed in Rabat threatened the "very essence of football."

 Taking to Instagram , Infantino singled out Senegal's players and coaching staff for their decision to stage a 14-minute walk-off protest after a controversial late penalty was awarded to Morocco in second-half stoppage time.

The FIFA President, who was in attendance at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, expressed his dismay at the disruption of the match.

Security Concerns: Prior to the final, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) filed official complaints alleging "sabotage," claiming players were left without security at train stations and provided with substandard accommodation.

Infantino’s comments have added weight to CAF’s ongoing investigation, but they have also deepened the sense of grievance felt by many fans who believe the hosts were given preferential treatment.

While Senegal celebrated their victory, secured by Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike after Brahim Diaz missed the controversial "Panenka" penalty, the focus has now shifted from the pitch to the boardroom.

With FIFA’s public backing, CAF is expected to hand down significant sanctions to Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw and several players for the walk-off.

Source DailySports Nigeria

Posted January 19, 2026

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