‘This is shameful!’ Morocco coach erupts and tears into the Senegal team after AFCON final meltdown!

Regragui did not hold back after Morocco’s dramatic defeat to Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final, accusing Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw of bringing shame to African football following one of the most chaotic finals in the tournament’s history. The final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium appeared destined for a fairytale ending for the hosts when Morocco were awarded a late penalty in stoppage time. Moments earlier, Senegal had seen a goal disallowed, a decision that triggered furious protests from their players and coaching staff.

What followed shocked viewers across the continent. On the instruction of Thiaw, Senegal’s players left the pitch in protest, halting the match for several minutes and throwing the final into disorder. After lengthy discussions and intervention from senior players including Sadio Mane, Senegal eventually returned to the field.

When play resumed, Morocco’s Brahim Diaz had the chance to secure the title from the penalty spot. Instead, his attempted Panenka lacked conviction and was comfortably saved, shifting momentum decisively. Senegal capitalised in extra time, scoring the winning goal and lifting their second AFCON trophy in recent years.

Regragui was visibly furious after the final whistle. Speaking at his post-match press conference, he described the scenes as damaging to the image of African football and placed responsibility squarely on Thiaw.

He argued that a coach instructing his players to abandon the pitch during a continental final sent the wrong message to the world. According to Regragui, the interruption affected the rhythm of the game and added unnecessary pressure at a decisive moment.

While acknowledging that Diaz must take responsibility for missing the penalty, Regragui insisted the disruption played a role in Morocco’s heartbreak. He described the final as cruel, stating that his team had been just seconds away from achieving a lifelong dream.

On the Senegal side, goalscorer Pape Gueye attempted to justify the walk-off, explaining that the team felt a clear injustice had occurred. He admitted emotions ran high but credited Mane for restoring calm and refocusing the squad.

The controversy did not end on the pitch. The post-match press conference itself descended into chaos, with Moroccan journalists walking out and heated arguments erupting between media representatives from both nations. Thiaw eventually left the room as tensions escalated further.

Despite the turmoil, Senegal emerged as champions. Yet the dramatic scenes ensured the final will be remembered not only for the football, but for a night when anger, protest and raw emotion overshadowed the sport itself.