Senegal Coach Banned 5 Matches, Fined After Cup of Nations Final Pitch Incident

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a five-game suspension and a $100,000 fine on Senegal coach Pape Thiaw for unsporting behavior during the Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco. Thiaw instructed his players to leave the pitch after a disallowed goal, which caused a 14-minute delay in the match.

In addition to the coach’s penalties, CAF fined Senegal’s football federation $615,000 due to the conduct of the team and the behavior of their supporters. Two Senegalese players, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr, received suspensions for two CAF matches each following their unsporting actions directed at the match referee.

Morocco also faced disciplinary actions, with CAF levying fines totaling $315,000 against the host nation. These penalties were related to misconduct by ball boys, infractions by players and staff in the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) area, and the use of laser pointers by spectators. Furthermore, Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two CAF matches, with one suspension deferred for a year, while Ismael Saibari was banned for three games for attempting to interfere with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s equipment.

Despite the disruptions, Senegal ultimately secured victory thanks to an extra-time goal by Pape Gueye. CAF’s Disciplinary Committee rejected Morocco’s effort to have the final result overturned after Senegal left the field. The Cup of Nations tournament, though marred by controversy in its closing stages, was otherwise successful and generated record revenue for CAF.

Summary of sanctions:

1. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw: 5-match ban, $100,000 fine
2. Senegal federation: $615,000 fine
3. Senegal players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr: 2-match suspensions each
4. Morocco federation: $315,000 fine
5. Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi: 2-match suspension (1-year deferred)
6. Morocco player Ismael Saibari: 3-match suspension

These disciplinary measures underscore CAF’s commitment to enforcing fair play and maintaining order in African football competitions. The incidents during the final illustrate the significant pressure and tensions that can arise in high-stakes matches.