Morocco’s football chiefs have threatened legal action after Senegal staged a dramatic walk-off protest during Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat.

The Senegalese players left the pitch for 14 minutes following a controversial VAR decision that awarded Morocco a late penalty.

The decision sparked chaotic scenes before play eventually resumed.

Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and Senegal later went on to win 1–0 in extra time.

In a strongly worded statement, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (RMFF) said the walk-off disrupted the match and negatively affected the performance and concentration of Moroccan players.

The federation confirmed it has formally written to both CAF and FIFA, demanding a ruling on what it described as unsporting conduct.
The incident has drawn condemnation from the highest levels of world football.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino criticised the actions of Senegal’s players and officials, warning that walk-offs and violent scenes “cannot be tolerated in our sport.”

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also stepped in, confirming that disciplinary proceedings will follow once officials complete a review of match footage and reports from referees and match commissioners.

The fallout threatens to overshadow Senegal’s dramatic triumph, as African football’s governing bodies now face mounting pressure to rule on one of the most controversial finals in recent AFCON history.

By Adama Makasuba