'Unacceptable scenes' during Africa Cup of Nations final - Infantino

BERLIN - FIFA president Gianni Infantino has "strongly condemned" Senegal for walking off the pitch after a video review went against them before winning the Africa Cup of Nations final, German Press Agency (dpa) reported.

The head of world football also said he expects appropriate sanctions after the chaotic scenes in Rabat on Sunday.

Senegal eventually defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time, but only after late drama in normal time when the home side were awarded a penalty.

The video review came eight minutes into stoppage time. In protest at what they saw as a wrong decision, Senegal's players, apparently at the behest of coach Pape Thiaw, walked off to the dressing room.

There were also clashes between fans and security forces in the stands. Senegal returned after 16 minutes and Morocco's Brahim Díaz then missed the penalty with a lamentable "Panenka." 

Pape Gueye grabbed Senegel's winner in extra-time but their victory was tainted despite the capital Dakar erupting into an all-night party. Senegal had also complained about unfair treatment compared to the hosts in the run-up to the final.

"Unfortunately, we also witnessed unacceptable scenes on the field and in the stands - we strongly condemn the behaviour of some 'supporters' as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff," Infantino wrote on Instagram.

"It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right. We must always respect the decisions taken by the match officials on and off the field of play."

Senegal have qualified for June and July's World Cup in North America and their spot is unlikely to be jeopardised by Sunday's scenes. But Infantino wants the Confederation of African Football to step up.  

"I expect that the relevant disciplinary bodies at CAF will take the appropriate measures," he wrote.

Morocco coach Walid Regragui was upset with counterpart Thiaw and his own player Díaz for his bizarre penalty. 

"The game we just had was shameful for Africa," he said. - BERNAMA-dpa