Morocco hosted the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
Hosts of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco, have been penalised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over misconduct in the final.
One of the unpleasant spectacles in the final occurred when ball boys were spotted fighting with Senegalese player over goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel for no apparent reason.
The Atlas Lions skipper Achraf Hakimi and midfielder Ismael Saibari were also involved in the brawl, which caused embarrassment to the tournament.
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Both players have been suspended by CAF, with Saibari getting an additional fine of $100,000.
The Moroccan football federation was sanctioned for failing to control the ball boys, who abandoned their duties of ensuring balls were placed at vantage points to chase after the towel.
The federation was also fined for failing to restrict the use of lasers by the fans during matches as CAF had banned its usage prior to the tournament.
Breakdown of CAF Disciplinary Board Decisions
Achraf Hakimi – Suspended for two official CAF matches (one suspended for one year) for unsporting behaviour.
Ismaël Saibari – Suspended for three official CAF matches and fined $100,000.
Federation of Royal Moroccan Football (FRMF) –
Fined $200,000 for inappropriate behaviour of ball boys.
Fined $100,000 for improper conduct of players and technical staff, who invaded the VAR review area and obstructed the referee.
Fined $15,000 for supporters’ use of lasers during the match.
SB/JE
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