The final of the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations continues to spark intense reactions, long after the final whistle. At the center of the controversies are the unsportsmanlike behaviors of some Moroccan players, particularly Achraf Hakimi and Ismaël Saïbari, both summoned by the CAF Disciplinary Committee to answer for incidents that occurred during the decisive match.
The most striking episode, now dubbed “the towel affair,” has left a lasting impression. Several times, Senegalese goalkeeper Édouard Mendy’s towel, crucial for drying his gloves, was deliberately removed. Footage shows Hakimi throwing the towel into the stands, an act seen as a blatant provocation. Shortly after, Saïbari intervened to prevent its return, forcing Senegal’s substitute goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, to grab it to retrieve it.
These actions, deemed unworthy of a continental final, heightened tensions in a match already marked by highly contested refereeing decisions. The situation quickly escalated into scuffles on the pitch and in the stands, prompting Senegalese coach Pape Thiaw to ask his players to temporarily leave the field.
This Tuesday, the CAF Disciplinary Committee, gathered in Cairo, is set to announce its decision. Several sanctions, including match suspensions, are being considered for Hakimi and Saïbari, as their actions are viewed as serious violations of sporting ethics.
The case could also involve the Senegalese camp. The continental body may examine the behavior of the technical staff and the Senegalese Football Federation, particularly due to the match interruption and some fan excesses.
It remains to be seen whether CAF will make an exemplary decision, so that this final, despite Senegal’s historic triumph, is remembered not just for its off-field incidents, but for the well-deserved victory of the Lions of Teranga.
