CAF Slams Five-Match Ban, $100,000 Fine On Senegal Coach Pape Thiaw Over AFCON 2025 Final Chaos

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By Sedara Philip

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has handed down heavy sanctions to Senegal head coach, Pape Bouna Thiaw, following his role in the controversial scenes that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.

CAF’s Disciplinary Board announced a five-match suspension and a $100,000 fine for Thiaw, citing unsporting conduct during the dramatic final clash between Senegal and hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

The incident occurred after Morocco were awarded a crucial penalty late in the match, a decision that sparked outrage from the Senegalese bench. In protest, the Teranga Lions walked off the pitch for approximately 17 minutes, a move reportedly orchestrated by Thiaw and his technical crew.

Calm was eventually restored following the intervention of team captain Sadio Mané, who led Senegal back onto the field to resume play. Despite the disruption, the final went on to produce a thrilling conclusion.

Morocco’s hopes were dented when Brahim Díaz failed to convert the penalty, opening the door for Senegal to mount a comeback.

The defending champions sealed victory in extra time, with midfielder Pape Gueye scoring a decisive solo goal to crown Senegal AFCON 2025 champions.

Following a comprehensive review of the incident, CAF ruled that Thiaw’s actions breached its disciplinary regulations. In an official statement, the continental body said:

“To suspend Mr. Pape Bouna Thiaw, the Head Coach of the Senegalese National Team, for five (5) 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.”

The statement further confirmed that:

“Mr. Pape Bouna Thiaw was also fined USD 100,000.”

Meanwhile, sources close to the Senegal Football Federation indicate that Thiaw is expected to file an appeal against the ruling in the coming days, as Senegal weigh their next steps following CAF’s decisive action.