Following various interpretations regarding the Teranga Lions’ brief walk-off during the Africa Cup of Nations final, Senegalese manager Pape Thiaw has clarified the reasons behind the team’s decision.
Thiaw reflected on the incidents that occurred on January 18, 2026, in Rabat, stating that the atmosphere in the stands had become untenable for continuing the match in a calm manner. He emphasized that the walk-off was not aimed at protesting the refereeing team or the decisions made during the game.
During the Africa Cup of Nations final, we partially left the pitch because it was impossible to finish the match under proper conditions. The atmosphere in the stands was disrupted by incidents involving some Moroccan and Senegalese supporters. We did not leave the pitch to protest against the referee or his decisions.