CAN 2025 final: Morocco also sanctioned by CAF

AFCON 29 January 2026 at 03:06

Aliou Toundé

News Editor

The final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco left its mark—and not just on the pitch. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also handed down several sanctions against Morocco following incidents during their clash with Senegal.

On the disciplinary front, Ismaïl Saibari received a three-match suspension and a $100,000 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct. Meanwhile, Atlas Lions captain Achraf Hakimi was hit with a two-match suspension, with one match suspended.

The Moroccan Football Federation was also hit hard financially. It was ordered to pay a total fine of $315,000, broken down as follows:

• $200,000 for the ball boys' inappropriate behavior,
• $100,000 for the conduct of players and staff who stormed the VAR area and interfered with the referee's work,
• $15,000 for supporters' use of lasers to distract Senegalese players.

These sanctions cast a shadow over the end of the tournament for Morocco and underscore CAF's firm stance against misconduct, even in the most high-profile encounters.