FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly condemned the chaotic scenes that marred Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and Morocco, describing the actions of some Senegalese players and supporters as “unacceptable.”

In a statement issued to AFP, Infantino criticised the decision by several Senegal players and members of the technical crew to walk off the pitch in protest after Morocco were awarded a late penalty following a VAR review.

“It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport,” Infantino said.

 “We strongly condemn the behaviour of some supporters as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members.”

The final, which was level at 0-0 deep into injury time, descended into controversy after Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz was judged to have been fouled in the box. The decision sparked outrage among Senegal players, many of whom left the pitch in protest.

Senegal captain and former Liverpool star Sadio Mané remained on the field and was seen urging his teammates to return. The players were already angry after having a goal disallowed moments earlier for what appeared to be a soft foul.

Tensions also spilled into the stands, where some Senegal supporters attempted to invade the pitch and clashed with security officials. The match was delayed for nearly 20 minutes before Díaz eventually took the penalty, which was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy after a weak panenka attempt.

The match was decided in extra time when Pape Gueye scored a brilliant goal in the fourth minute to secure a 1- 0 victory for Senegal.

While congratulating Morocco on “a fantastic tournament” and praising them as “exceptional hosts” ahead of their role as co-hosts of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, Infantino stressed the importance of respecting match officials.

“Teams must compete on the pitch and within the Laws of the Game. Anything less puts the very essence of football at risk,” he said.

Infantino added that such incidents send the wrong message to fans worldwide and called on teams to act responsibly.

“The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and never repeated. They have no place in football,” he said. 

He expressed confidence that CAF’s disciplinary bodies would take appropriate action.