Infantino criticises Senegal over disruptive incidents in Africa Cup final

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has criticised certain Senegal players for the disruptive incidents that marred their triumph in Sundays Africa Cup of Nations final after they temporarily abandoned the pitch in objection to a penalty given to Morocco.

We firmly denounce the actions of a few supporters along with some Senegalese players and coaching staff. It is wholly improper to exit the playing area like that said Infantino in a message provided to AFP.

It is wholly improper to exit the playing area like that and likewise aggression has no place in our game it is just not acceptable.

The continents premier football tournament was tainted when most Senegalese players left the field late in regular time with the score level at zero zero after Morocco received a penalty via VAR review for a foul on Brahim Diaz.

Senegals ex Liverpool forward Sadio Mane stayed on the field and called his colleagues back to face the spot kick.

The team was already incensed by an earlier goal ruled out due to what seemed a minor infringement moments before.

At the same time unrest erupted among spectators as certain Senegalese supporters attempted to access the pitch leading to clashes with security.

The fixture was delayed by nearly twenty minutes before Diaz attempted the penalty and his feeble panenka effort was stopped by Senegal custodian Edouard Mendy.

Pape Gueye subsequently netted an impressive strike in the fourth minute of added time securing a one nil victory for his side.

Infantino in praising Morocco for a superb competition both as finalists and outstanding organisers a positive note before their joint hosting of the 2030 mens World Cup stressed that squads must honour rulings from officials.

We must always honour the rulings made by officials during and after play he stated.

Squads must play on the field and adhere to the rules of the game as falling short endangers the core spirit of football.

Infantino who anticipates no such disruptions at this years World Cup co hosted by the United States Canada and Mexico noted that Sundays visuals convey an incorrect signal to global audiences.

It falls to squads and players to behave accountably and provide a positive model for fans in venues and the millions viewing worldwide he added.

The regrettable events seen today deserve strong disapproval and must never occur again. I emphasise they belong nowhere in football and I anticipate that CAFs disciplinary authorities will implement suitable actions.