Morocco’s football federation has announced plans to formally appeal heavy fines and player bans imposed by CAF following the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal.

The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was slapped with a total fine of $315,000, alongside suspensions handed to two key players.

In an official statement, the FRMF said it would appeal the rulings to “preserve all rights guaranteed by the regulations,” arguing the sanctions did not match the severity of the incidents.

The AFCON final on January 18 descended into chaos after Ismaila Sarr’s late goal was disallowed for a foul on African Player of the Year Achraf Hakimi.

Morocco was later awarded a penalty after Brahim Diaz was fouled, triggering furious protests from Senegal’s camp.

Diaz missed the resulting spot kick, which was saved by Edouard Mendy, before the match went to extra time, where Pape Gueye scored the winner to hand Senegal a second AFCON title.

During the lengthy VAR stoppage, some Senegal supporters threw objects and briefly invaded the pitch before security forces intervened.

Morocco was fined $200,000 for the “inappropriate behaviour of stadium ball boys.”

Another $100,000 fine followed for “improper conduct” by Moroccan players and officials who invaded the VAR area and interfered with the referee.

A further $15,000 fine was imposed for the use of lasers by Moroccan supporters.

On the disciplinary front, Ismael Saibari received a three-match ban and $100,000 fine, while captain Achraf Hakimi was suspended for two matches.

Senegal’s federation, which was fined $615,000 and saw head coach Pape Thiaw banned for five games, also confirmed it would appeal.

Players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr were handed two-match bans for unsporting conduct toward match officials.

AFP