The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board has imposed hefty fines against both the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), following a chaotic African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between the two countries two weeks ago in Rabat.
The final was overshadowed by scenes of a walk-off by Senegal players, in protest against what they regarded as biasness by the match official.
This after Morocco were awarded a controversial penalty in the dying minutes of the match, while Senegal was angry that they were not awarded a penalty minute earlier.
This resulted in some clashes between players from both countries, including officials, and clashes on the stands between Senegal supporters and security officials.
Following prolonged disputes by Senegal, coach Pape Thiaw, ordered his players off the pitch, but they eventually returned to complete the match, and eventually won the tournament.
Following its review of the incidents, CAF has resolved to suspended Thiaw for five official CAF matches for his unsporting conduct in violation of the CAF Disciplinary Code principles of fair play and integrity and for bringing the game into disrepute and was $100,000 (R1.57m).
The suspension and fines were also imposed on his teammates and the FSF.
“To suspend the Senegalese National Team players, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr for two official CAF matches, for their unsporting behaviour towards the referee.
To fine the FSF $300,000 (R4.7m) for the improper conduct of its supporters, which brought the game into disrepute in violation of the CAF Disciplinary Code principles of fair play and integrity.
To fine the FSF $300,000 (R4.7m) for the unsporting conduct of their players and technical staff in violation of the CAF Disciplinary Code principles of fair play, loyalty, and integrity.
The unsporting conduct of their players and the technical staff also brought the game into disrepute,” read a statement from CAF.
Furthermore, CAF fined the FSF $15,000 (R235 342) for the misconduct of its National Team, after five of its players received cautions.
The fines and sanctions were also extended to the host nation and players, for their involvement in the standoff.
Morocco’s Captain Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two official CAF matches, with one of these matches being suspended for one year from the date of this decision, for his unsporting behaviour.
“To suspend Ismaël Saibari for three official CAF matches for his unsporting behaviour and fined him $100,000 (R1.57m).
To fine the FRMF $200,000 (R3,1m) for the inappropriate behaviour of the stadium’s ball boys during the match.
To fine the FRMF $100,000 (R1.57m) for the improper conduct of their National Team players and technical staff, who invaded the VAR review area and obstructed the referee’s work, in violation of the principles of fair play and integrity, as stated in Articles 82 and 83 of the CAF Disciplinary Code,” added the statement.
In addition, the FRMF was fined $15,000 (R235 342) for the use of lasers by its supporters during the match.
The sanctions are only limited to CAF competitions.
