Thiaw Apologizes for AFCON Final Actions: 'Emotion is Integral to Football'

22 January 2026at12:40

Senegal national team coach, Pape Thiaw, has broken his silence to clarify his stance following the controversy surrounding his players' withdrawal during the Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.

In a message posted across his social media accounts, Pape Thiaw explained: "I only tried to protect my players in the face of what I considered an injustice. It was never my intention to act contrary to the principles of football."

The Senegal coach continued in the same message: "I apologize if I offended some people… but football fans understand that emotion is an integral part of this game."

Concluding his remarks, the 'Teranga Lions' coach extended an apology to football itself, stressing that the human element always takes precedence over any trophy or title, a stance reflecting strong sportsmanship.

Q&A

Why did Senegal coach Pape Thiaw apologize after the AFCON final?

Pape Thiaw apologized for his actions during the AFCON final, stating he aimed to protect his players from perceived injustice and that emotion is integral to the game.

How did Pape Thiaw explain his controversial stance during the AFCON final?

Thiaw explained he acted to protect his players against what he considered an injustice, emphasizing that while he apologized for offending some, emotion is a core part of football.

Morocco

Senegal

CAF Africa Cup of Nations