Cairo, January 29, 2026 – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced sanctions described as among the largest in the history of African football, targeting the national teams of Senegal and Morocco. The penalties stem from incidents during a continental match involving unsporting behavior from players, technical staff, and fans.
Sanctions for the Senegal National Team
Suspension of coach Babi Thiao for 5 official matches due to unsporting behavior and actions that harmed the reputation of the game, along with a fine of $100,000.
Suspension of player Iliman Ndiaye for 2 official matches due to unsporting behavior towards the referee.
Suspension of player Ismaïla Sarr for 2 official matches for the same reason.
Fines for the Senegalese Football Federation:
$300,000 due to inappropriate fan behavior.
$300,000 due to unsporting behavior by players and technical staff.
$15,000 due to team misconduct after 5 players received cautions.
Sanctions for the Morocco National Team
Rejection of the protest filed by the Moroccan Football Federation against the Senegalese Federation.
Suspension of Achraf Hakimi for 2 official matches, with one match suspended and to be applied if the offense is repeated within a year.
Suspension of Ismael Saibari for 3 official matches due to unsporting behavior, along with a fine of $100,000.
Fines for the Moroccan Football Federation:
$200,000 due to inappropriate behavior by ball collectors.
$100,000 due to players and technical staff encroaching on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review area and obstructing the referee’s work.
$15,000 due to Moroccan fans using laser pointers during the match.
Total fines for the Moroccan Federation: $315,000.
The sanctions reflect the Confederation of African Football’s strict stance on enforcing discipline, sending a clear message on the necessity of adhering to sporting behavior both on and off the pitch.
