Pape Thiaw was reportedly forced to leave the press conference after AFCON final
Senegal’s historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph on Sunday, January 18, 2026, was followed by unexpected controversy off the pitch.
After guiding the Lions of Teranga to their second AFCON title, head coach Pape Thiaw was not allowed to speak to the media, reportedly hounded out of the room by journalists from Morocco.
The Senegal post-match press conference, meant to celebrate their 1–0 extra-time victory over the hosts, was abruptly cancelled amid heated altercations between members of the press.
Reports indicate tensions flared between Senegal and Moroccan journalists who were pressed for answers on decisions during the final.
Brahim Díaz suffers abuse, accused of missing penalty on purpose
The final itself was a rollercoaster of tension and drama. Morocco, playing at home, were chasing their first AFCON title in 50 years, while Senegal sought to cement their dominance in recent tournaments.
After a tightly contested 90 minutes, a penalty awarded to Morocco in stoppage time sparked chaos, with Senegal players temporarily leaving the pitch in protest.
Brahim Díaz’s subsequent Panenka was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, sending the game into extra time, where Senegal scored the decisive goal.
Following the trophy celebrations, however, the post-match interactions turned chaotic.
Thiaw, usually composed and media-friendly, reportedly exited after repeated confrontations with journalists, leaving the room and cancelling all interviews.
Watch the video below:
#AFCON2025FINAL winning coach Pape Thiaw will not speak to the world’s media, after winning the trophy 🏆. He was hounded out of the room by journalists from #Morocco. I have never seen this type of thing at an #AFCON. 🤦🏾♂️ pic.twitter.com/CwpsMTXfAo
— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) January 18, 2026
FKA/JE
Meanwhile, watch Ghanaians rate Daniel Laryea’s performance.
