Morocco’s football federation has announced it will appeal disciplinary sanctions and fines imposed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following last month’s chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal.
In a statement, the federation said the penalties were disproportionate to the “seriousness and gravity” of the incidents that marred the 18 January final, which Senegal won in extra time.
The match was disrupted by a 14-minute stoppage late in regulation time after Senegalese players temporarily walked off the pitch in protest over a disallowed goal.
While Senegal also received sporting and financial penalties, its football federation said last week it would abide by the CAF disciplinary committee’s decision.
Morocco, whose appeal to overturn the match result was dismissed by CAF, was fined a total of $315,000. The sanctions relate to what CAF described as misconduct by Moroccan players, officials, and supporters, including the use of laser pointers to distract Senegalese players.
Forward Ismael Saibari was handed a three-match suspension and fined $100,000 for “unsporting behaviour,” while captain and defender Achraf Hakimi received a two-match ban. Both players were punished for attempting to remove Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel during heavy rain conditions.
