Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has issued a public apology following the chaotic scenes that overshadowed his side’s 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
In an emotional statement shared on social media, Thiaw expressed “profound regret” over his decision to instruct his players to walk off the pitch during the closing stages of the final, insisting it was never his intention to act against the principles of the game.
The dramatic incident led to a delay of about 17 minutes and followed a controversial sequence of decisions, including the disallowance of a Senegal goal and a VAR-awarded penalty for Morocco. The protest sparked fears the final could be abandoned altogether.
“I was just trying to protect my players from injustice,” Thiaw explained. “What some will perceive as a rule violation is nothing but an emotional reaction to the bias of the situation.”
The Moroccan Football Federation has since lodged a formal protest with both CAF and FIFA over the walk-off. Order was eventually restored after Senegal captain Sadio Mané convinced his teammates to return to the pitch.
Upon resumption, goalkeeper Édouard Mendy saved Brahim Díaz’s penalty, before Senegal went on to secure the title in extra time courtesy of a decisive strike from Pape Gueye, sealing the country’s second continental crown.
Thiaw later acknowledged the controversy surrounding the incident and offered an apology to those affected.
“After consultation, we decided to restart the match and go win this trophy for you,” he said. “I apologise if I may have offended some people.”
The Confederation of African Football has confirmed it is investigating the matter, with disciplinary action against Thiaw expected. While the episode marred the climax of the tournament, the Senegal coach’s statement sought to provide context to a highly charged moment while accepting responsibility for his actions on the night.
