The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has taken a significant step in the ongoing investigations into the incidents that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal.
Although Senegal emerged the eventual winners, the game is still being disputed over a controversial penalty call by Congolese referee Jean Jacques Ndala and the subsequent walk off the pitch by protesting Senegalese players.
This has since drawn the attention and scrutiny of FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the matter, putting immense pressure on CAF to investigate the contentious issues.
Meanwhile, a recently released recording of referee Ndala’s conversation with VAR officials during Senegal’s walk off the pitch after the penalty call has also been included as evidence in the ongoing investigations.
Now, the African football governing body have taken another surprising step in the increasingly controversial situation surrounding the 2025 AFCON final.
CAF removes Senegalese official Ousmane Kane from disciplinary committee
CAF has now confirmed the removal of Ousmane Kane, a Senegalese national and President of the CAF Disciplinary Committee, from all proceedings related to the AFCON final.
The latest decision is understood to be aimed at ensuring transparency, neutrality, and credibility in the disciplinary process. It follows concerns over a potential conflict of interest due to Kane’s nationality as a Senegalese.
This is the latest action by CAF in a series of high-profile sanctions meted out by the body so far, such as suspension of the Algerian head coach as well as punishments on several individuals, including supporters.
The Confederation of African Football is now expected to appoint an alternative senior official in Ousmane Kane’s place to oversee the disciplinary process, as the football governing body seeks to conclude the matter quickly and decisively.
A final decision on possible sanctions against the parties involved is also anticipated in the coming days.
