Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw is facing the possibility of a World Cup touchline ban following dramatic and controversial scenes during Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against hosts Morocco.

Thiaw, who eventually guided Senegal to a 1–0 extra-time victory and a second AFCON title, came under intense scrutiny after ordering his players to walk off the pitch deep into stoppage time. The decision came moments after Senegal had a goal ruled out for a contentious foul, followed almost immediately by Morocco being awarded a highly controversial penalty in the 98th minute.

Incensed by the back-to-back decisions, Thiaw instructed his players to leave the field. Most of the Senegal squad complied, prompting a 17-minute stoppage as riot police were deployed to prevent angry Senegalese supporters from entering the pitch.

After play eventually resumed, Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the penalty, and the match went into extra time. Pape Gueye’s superb strike ultimately secured a famous victory for Senegal, sealing their AFCON triumph.

Despite the historic success, celebrations were short-lived for Thiaw. The 44-year-old is expected to face disciplinary action, with a touchline ban the most likely outcome. With Senegal’s next competitive fixtures scheduled for this summer’s World Cup in North America, any suspension could be served at the tournament.

The newly crowned African champions are set to open their World Cup campaign against France in New York, before group matches against Norway and one of Bolivia, Iraq, or Suriname—pending the intercontinental play-offs.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who attended the final in Morocco, condemned the scenes, describing them as “unacceptable” and criticising the conduct of some Senegalese players and coaching staff. He urged CAF’s disciplinary bodies to take firm action.

In an official statement, CAF echoed those concerns, strongly condemning any behaviour targeting match officials or organisers and confirming that all available footage is being reviewed ahead of possible sanctions.

Thiaw later expressed regret over his actions, admitting he acted in the heat of the moment. He also issued an apology to the football community, acknowledging that instructing his players to leave the pitch was a mistake. However, tensions remained high post-match, as he later stormed out of his press conference after being heckled by Moroccan journalists.