Senegal coach Pape Thiaw has apologised following a controversial incident during his team’s 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Sunday.
The incident occurred when Thiaw briefly ordered his players to leave the pitch in protest after a penalty was awarded to Morocco’s Brahim Diaz, who had been pulled by Malick Diouf inside the box.
Speaking after the match, Thiaw told Sky Sports on Monday: “I don’t want to go over the incidents. I apologise for the football. After reflecting on it, I made them come back on the pitch. You can react in the heat of the moment. We accept the errors of the referee. We shouldn’t have done it, but it is done, and we present our apologies to football.”
The Senegal coach acknowledged the emotional intensity of the moment and emphasised the importance of professionalism and accountability, urging players and fans to focus on moving forward.
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Reacting to the incident, Morocco head coach Walid Regragui described Thiaw’s actions as “shameful,” after Morocco’s dramatic defeat in the final.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also condemned the behaviour of some players and officials during the AFCON 2025 final in Rabat, highlighting the need for discipline and respect in the sport.