Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has released an emotional statement expressing deep regret over the controversial scenes that unfolded during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

The Teranga Lions defeated hosts Morocco 1–0 after extra time to claim their second AFCON title, but the historic victory was overshadowed by heated moments late in the match. Tensions rose after Senegal had a goal disallowed, followed shortly by a penalty being awarded to Morocco, prompting strong protests from the Senegalese bench.

In the heat of the moment, Thiaw instructed his players to step away from the pitch in protest. However, senior winger Sadio Mané played a crucial role in persuading the team to return and complete the match. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz subsequently saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy before Pape Gueye struck the decisive extra-time winner.

Thiaw now faces the possibility of disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for his role in the near walkout. Addressing the situation in a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, the Senegal coach insisted that his actions were never meant to undermine the spirit of the game.

“We had an outstanding tournament with great organization, which unfortunately ended in a dramatic way. It was never my intention to go against the principles of the game I love so much. I was simply trying to protect my players from what I felt was injustice,” Thiaw wrote.

He added that what may be viewed by some as a breach of regulations was driven purely by emotion, stressing that calm eventually prevailed.

“After consultation, we decided to resume the match and go on to win this trophy for you. I sincerely apologize if my actions offended anyone,” he concluded.

CAF is yet to make a final decision on any potential sanctions as the fallout from the dramatic final continues to generate debate across the football world.