CAF to Re-Examine AFCON Final Case Next Tuesday

The Appeals Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), chaired by Nigerian Rolay Geestik, will convene next Tuesday to review documents submitted by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF). The FRMF has challenged a decision issued by the Disciplinary Committee following the events of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

This meeting follows the acceptance of the appeal in recent days, reopening procedures concerning the incidents that occurred at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat during the tournament's final. Among the main arguments to be discussed is Morocco's request to apply disciplinary law articles regarding Senegal's alleged withdrawal from the match, as well as the annulment of certain disciplinary decisions concerning the suspensions of Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari.

CAF had announced sanctions at the end of last January, which included a $300,000 fine for Senegal due to improper fan behavior. An additional $300,000 fine was imposed for unsporting conduct by players and technical staff. Furthermore, Senegal's coach, Pape Bouna Thiaw, received a five-match official suspension, while players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaïla Sarr were suspended for two matches each. An extra $15,000 fine was also levied against Senegal for accumulating five yellow cards.

Morocco was also fined $315,000 for the behavior of ball boys, the use of lasers, and technicians entering the VAR area. Additionally, Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two matches (one of which was suspended), and Ismael Saibari received a three-match suspension along with a $100,000 fine.