President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Referees Committee, Olivier Safari, has indicated that regulations governing the use of towels by goalkeepers could be reviewed following the controversy that marred the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The issue first emerged during Nigeria’s semi-final clash with host nation Morocco, when Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was repeatedly distracted by stadium officials who interfered with his towels. The incident quickly went viral on social media.

The situation resurfaced—and escalated—during the final, once again involving the hosts. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy faced similar disruptions, with Moroccan ball boys, stewards and even players repeatedly handling or removing his towels. In one widely shared clip, Africa Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi was seen taking Mendy’s towel.

The disturbances forced Senegal’s substitute goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, to intervene in an attempt to protect Mendy’s towels. However, the move only added to the chaos, as Diouf was chased by stewards and ball boys before being forcibly removed from the pitch.

Despite the repeated interruptions, Senegal went on to clinch the title in dramatic fashion. Nonetheless, the incidents could still lead to sanctions against Teranga Lions supporters, head coach Pape Thiaw, and the Senegal Football Federation.

Speaking to Canal+ Afrique, Safari acknowledged the issue and suggested that regulatory changes may be considered.

“This is a problem organisers must take into account in future competitions,” he said.

“A towel is not part of a player’s or goalkeeper’s equipment. When a goalkeeper carries a towel, it must be used in a sporting and fair-play manner. Once it is used to give instructions or influence the game, I believe it should be removed from the playing area.”