The Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Appeals Board has eased a number of sanctions imposed on Morocco following the fallout from a controversial continental final, in a move that significantly softens the disciplinary measures originally handed down.
The latest ruling comes in the wake of an earlier landmark decision to strip Senegal of the title, with the Appeals Board now turning its attention to reassessing punishments issued by the CAF Disciplinary Board.
One of the most high-profile cases involved Moroccan midfielder Saibari, who had initially received a three-match suspension for interfering with the Senegal goalkeeper’s towel during the final. Upon review, the Appeals Board reduced the suspension to two matches, while completely scrapping the accompanying $100,000 fine.
Morocco also benefitted from a substantial reduction in team-related penalties. A $200,000 fine imposed over the conduct of ball boys during the match has been cut down to $50,000, suggesting a more measured interpretation of the incident’s severity.
Supporter-related sanctions were also revisited. The fine for the use of laser pointers by Moroccan fans during the game has been reduced from $15,000 to $10,000.
The revised sanctions indicate a shift in CAF’s disciplinary stance, with the Appeals Board appearing to favour proportionality in its final determinations. While the broader controversy surrounding the final continues to generate debate, Morocco’s reduced penalties mark a notable outcome of the appeals process.
Further reactions from both federations and CAF stakeholders are expected as the governing body continues to manage the aftermath of one of the competition’s most contentious conclusions in recent history.