The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced disciplinary sanctions against the head coach of the Lions of Teranga, Pape Thiaw, as well as two Senegalese internationals, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr, following the incidents that occurred during the controversial final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This match, played on January 18 and won by Senegal against Morocco with a score of 1-0, was marked by high tensions and an electric atmosphere, particularly due to the contentious officiating by Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala Ngambo.
According to the findings of the continental body, the Senegalese coach and the two players displayed “inappropriate behavior” during the match, contradicting the principles of fair play and respect for officials. As a result, CAF decided to impose a five (5) match suspension on Pape Thiaw, while Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr each received two (2) match suspensions.
However, CAF made it clear that these sanctions apply exclusively to African competitions under its authority. This clarification is crucial for Senegal, as it means neither the coach nor the two players will be affected by any potential absence during the World Cup, a news welcomed with relief by the Lions of Teranga and their many supporters.
In practice, the suspensions will be served during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, scheduled for June and July 2027 and co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Thus, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr will be able to return to CAF competitions by the third matchday of the qualifiers, while Pape Thiaw will return to the bench on the sixth matchday.
Despite the severity of the sanctions, this decision allows the coaching staff and players to look ahead with more peace of mind towards upcoming international challenges. It also underscores CAF’s commitment to firmly remind everyone of the importance of respecting rules and officials, while minimizing the sporting impact of these suspensions on major upcoming international competitions.
So, even though the Lions of Teranga will have to cope without their head coach Pape Thiaw and two of their key forwards during certain matches in African competitions, these absences will be temporary and limited. The main thing is preserved: Senegal’s participation in the World Cup is in no way threatened by these sanctions. This news has been met with real relief by supporters and observers, who can now look ahead confidently to the upcoming international fixtures, with the unwavering ambition to see the Lions fully defend their chances on the world stage.
