AFCON Final Fallout: Head Referees Committee Set To Be Removed, Faces Severe Punishment

AFCON Final Fallout: Head Referees Committee Set To Be Removed, Faces Severe Punishment

Sampson Adedeji

Despite the verdict of the disciplinary committee, the controversy surrounding the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations between Morocco and Senegal is far from over, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Fresh reports indicate that the chairman of the refereeing committee, Olivier Safari Kabeni, is set to be relieved of his duties following the outcome of internal investigations into the handling of the final.

Kabeni reportedly admitted to issuing instructions that Senegalese players should not be cautioned during the tense encounter, citing fears that strict officiating could have led to the abandonment of the high-profile match. 

The revelation has sparked widespread criticism across the continent’s football community.

Although the disciplinary committee has delivered its ruling on the matter, the executive committee is said to be dissatisfied with the broader implications of the incident. 

Sources close to the federation revealed that members are now pushing for a complete overhaul of the refereeing structure to restore credibility and integrity to officiating at major tournaments.

The development marks a significant escalation in the fallout from one of the most controversial finals in recent African football history, with further sanctions expected in the coming days.