The Senegal U17 players and some members of the technical crew could face disciplinary action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their conduct during the semi-final clash against Morocco at the ongoing U17 Africa Cup of Nations. Senegal defeated Morocco on 7-6 penalties after a 1-1 draw to advance to final of U17 AFCON.
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After the game, several Senegalese players and officials were spotted making provocative gestures towards the Moroccan crowd inside the stadium. Their actions have since generated reactions on social media, with many football supporters criticising the West Africans for their unsportmanship and unprofessionalism.
CAF is expected to review the incidents and decide whether the players and officials involved should be sanctioned. Meanwhile, Senegal is set to take on Tanzania in the final on Tuesday June 2, 2026.
Senegal reach U17 AFCON final after dramatic penalty shootouts against Morocco
The Senegal U17 players booked their spot in the ongoing U17 Africa Cup of Nations final after defeating Morocco on Thursday, May 28. Senegal played a dramatic 7-6 penalty shootouts after a 1-1 draw with Morocco during regulation time at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
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It was an intense encounter from both sides, with the West Africans opting for long balls in an attempt to reach the Atlas Cubs’ penalty area, while their opponents played a defensive game in the opening minutes. However, Senegal opened scoring through Mouhamed Wagner in the 23rd minute, while Morocco attempted to respond almost immediately Mohamed Amine Moustache, but his shot was pushed away by goalkeeper Assane Sarr in the 28th minute.
Undeterred, the Atlas Cubs pressed hard and dominated possession but their efforts remained unrewarded in the first half. After the break, they continued their high pressing, fuelled by by relentless support from a home crowd. Then Ismail El Aoud rescued the hosts deep into stoppage time after Morocco earned a penalty. El Aoud reacted quickly after his penalty was initially saved by Sarr, turning home the rebound in the ninth minute of added time to level the score and send the game to a penalty shootout.
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Senegal eventually prevailed 7-6 despite Morocco goalkeeper Rayan Yaakoubi’s important saves to keep his team alive. Sarr delivered the decisive moments for Senegal in the shootout that stretched into sudden death.
