FIFA President Gianni Infantino posted on Instagram today to congratulate Senegal on winning the Africa Cup of Nations title, while condemning the team’s attempt to walk off the pitch midway through the match.
Infantino wrote: “Congratulations to Senegal for defeating Morocco in Rabat to be crowned African champions and win the Africa Cup of Nations final. I also extend my warmest wishes to Abdoulaye Faye, President of the Senegalese Football Federation, and all those involved in this success.🏆👏”
“Congratulations also to Morocco as runners-up and wonderful hosts for staging a magnificent tournament. I sincerely thank His Majesty King Mohammed VI for his continued support for football, and Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation and FIFA Council member, for his contributions in terms of leadership and dedication to the sport.⚽👏”
“Regrettably, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the pitch and in the stands, and we strongly condemn the behaviour of some so-called 'supporters' as well as some Senegal players and members of the technical staff. Walking off the pitch in such a manner is unacceptable, and equally, violence has no place in our sport – this is simply wrong.”
“We must always respect the decisions made by match officials on and off the pitch. Teams must compete on the pitch and within the rules of the game, because any act that deviates from this principle jeopardises the very essence of football.”
"Teams and players also have a responsibility to act responsibly and set the right example for the fans in attendance and the millions of viewers around the world. The ugly scenes witnessed today must be condemned and must never be repeated. I reiterate that such behaviour has no place in football, and I expect the relevant disciplinary bodies of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take appropriate measures."
