FIFA President Gianni Infantino has criticised what he described as “unacceptable scenes” involving some Senegal players during Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco.

Infantino condemned the players’ decision to walk off the pitch in protest after a penalty was awarded to Morocco, saying the incident overshadowed Senegal’s historic victory in the tournament decider.

In a statement, the FIFA boss stressed that while emotions can run high in high-stakes matches, such actions were not in line with the spirit of the game and tarnished what should have been a moment of celebration for African football.

The dramatic protest briefly halted proceedings in the final and drew widespread reactions across the football world, with many observers expressing concern over player conduct during major international competitions.

Despite the controversy, Senegal went on to secure the title, but Infantino noted that the focus had unfortunately shifted from their triumph to the conduct that marred the closing stages of the match.