The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final ended with Senegal crowned champions, but the showpiece match was overshadowed by controversy involving Moroccan stars Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saïbari.

The flashpoint, dubbed the “towel incident”, saw Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy repeatedly denied access to his towel, which he needed to dry his gloves.

Television footage shows Hakimi throwing the towel into the stands, while Saïbari blocked attempts to return it, forcing substitute goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf to step in.

The tense final was further marred by disputed refereeing decisions, on-pitch scuffles and crowd unrest.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw reportedly asked his players to temporarily leave the pitch amid the chaos.

CAF has since convened its Disciplinary Committee in Cairo to review the incidents.

The panel is reportedly considering multi-match suspensions for Hakimi and Saïbari for breaches of sporting conduct.

The governing body is also expected to examine events in the Senegal camp, including potential sanctions against the technical staff and the national federation over the brief match stoppage and crowd disturbances.

While Senegal celebrate a historic AFCON triumph, the final now leaves a dual legacy — sporting glory mixed with controversy and renewed focus on discipline and fair play.

Debate continues across social media and football forums, with the “towel incident” sparking wider discussions about pressure, sportsmanship and behaviour in high-stakes continental football.

By Adama Makasuba