Why Did CAF Suspend Pape Thiaw Following Senegal AFCON Win?

Following a triumphant night for Senegal Football, where they were crowned the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions courtesy of a 1-0 extra-time win over hosts Morocco, coach Pape Thiaw's suspension will be a bit of a downer. Thiaw, 45, is facing disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after ordering his players off the pitch in protest, resulting in a 14-minute halt to play as the team regrouped in the dressing area. While Senegal moves up in the AFCON winners list, this incident on the pitch left fans disappointed.

Pape Thiaw Suspension Following AFCON Victory Over Morocco

While the victory delivered Senegal’s second AFCON title in three editions, the post-match atmosphere and resulting backlash have drawn the ire of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). According to The Guardian's Romain Molina, Thiaw is going to be suspended by the CAF Disciplinary Committee, with some Senegalese players also in danger of receiving disciplinary action.

The drama unfolded in stoppage time of regulation. After Senegal believed they had a late goal disallowed, referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty following a VAR review of a foul against Real Madrid winger Brahim Díaz. Frustrated by what he and his players perceived as unjust officiating, Thiaw made the controversial decision to call his players off the pitch.

Only after influential captain Sadio Mané urged his teammates to return did Senegal resume the match. The Moroccan penalty was eventually taken, but Díaz's feeble Panenka attempt was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy. The Lions of Teranga then went on to win the match in extra time, with Pape Gueye scoring off a powerful left-foot strike in the 94th minute to settle the game for his side.

How Many Games Will Pape Thiaw Miss After Suspension?

The duration of the Pape Thiaw suspension imposed by the CAF has not yet been revealed. According to Reuters, a source close to CAF’s disciplinary committee confirmed that investigations will focus on whether Thiaw’s decision to lead his players off the pitch violated competition regulations regarding respect for match officials and orderly conduct. If found guilty of misconduct, sanctions could range from fines to suspensions, potentially affecting the coach’s future with the national team.

Supporters of Senegal’s approach argue that Pape Thiaw acted out of passion and a sense of injustice over key refereeing decisions. But critics counter that no matter the stakes, abandoning play undermines the spirit of fair competition and sets a harmful precedent. In a sport watched by millions globally, the suspension or fines that CAF’s disciplinary committee imposes may have lasting implications beyond this single championship and potentially shape expectations of conduct for coaches and national teams across African football.