CAF has reportedly cleared referee Jean-Jacques Ndala of any wrongdoing following the dramatic AFCON 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco.
The Congolese official came under scrutiny after Senegal briefly walked off the pitch late in the game when Morocco were awarded a stoppage-time penalty.
Senegal coach and players protested a disallowed goal for Thiaw’s foul on Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi, halting the match for around 17 minutes.
Sadio Mane persuaded his teammates to return, and Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s Panenka penalty. Ndala then ended the match, with Senegal ultimately winning in extra time thanks to Pape Gueye’s decisive goal, securing their second AFCON title in five years.
According to Snewsafrica after a thorough investigation, CAF confirmed no irregularities or errors by Ndala, praising his professionalism and integrity. The referee is now expected to officiate at the upcoming World Cup.
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However, a series of punishments were issued for players and federations. Senegal forwards Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr received two-match bans each for unsporting behaviour, and the Senegal Football Federation was fined $615,000.
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Morocco’s Ismael Saibari was handed a three-match suspension and a $100,000 fine, while Hakimi received a two-match ban, one of which is suspended for 12 months. Morocco’s appeal to overturn the final result was dismissed.
