Senegal’s coach justifies team’s exit during AFCON final amid disorder.
Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw has justified his team’s exit from the field during the Africa Cup of Nations final, stating it was an emotional choice made amidst the turmoil of the moment.
On Sunday, Senegal departed the pitch in stoppage time after Morocco was granted a penalty, shortly following the disallowance of a potential game-winning goal for Senegal.
“It was never my aim to contravene the principles of the game I cherish deeply,” Thiaw expressed on Instagram on Thursday. “I merely sought to shield my players from unfairness. What some might view as a breach of the rules is simply an emotional response to the circumstances. After careful consideration, we opted to continue the match and pursue the trophy.”
Sadio Mané encouraged the Senegal players to return so Brahim Díaz could take the penalty for Morocco. Díaz’s attempt was saved in the final play of normal time, and then Pape Guaye netted in extra time, securing a 1-0 victory for Senegal.
The following day, FIFA president Gianni Infantino criticized Senegal’s exit, while the Moroccan Football Federation announced it was seeking legal action with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football, claiming it “significantly affected the normal flow of the match and the players’ performance.”
The penalty decision sparked altercations around the field, with opposing players clashing on the sidelines as stewards struggled with Senegalese supporters behind one of the goals. Some fans managed to enter the field, where the confrontations persisted, and several were removed.
Senegal’s walkoff ultimately resulted in a 15-minute interruption in play, but altercations were still occurring when Brahim took his unsuccessful penalty kick.
“We experienced an extraordinary tournament with excellent organization, which regrettably concluded in a dramatic manner,” Thiaw remarked.
The Senegal Football Federation condemned the absence of “fair play” from the Moroccan hosts prior to the final, contributing to the Teranga Lions’ feeling of injustice when their late goal was disallowed and the penalty was awarded against them.
“I apologize if I have upset anyone,” Thiaw stated regarding his team’s exit, “but those who love football will recognize that emotion is a fundamental aspect of this sport.”
