Police arrest 19 football fans over acts of 'hooliganism' after violent clash erupted at Afcon final

A single Algerian national was also arrested on suspicion of inciting the violent behaviour, police confirmed.

The detentions followed chaotic scenes at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where the tournament decider descended into turmoil after Morocco were awarded a controversial late penalty.

An official investigation has been launched to establish the full circumstances of the incidents and identify those responsible.

During the match, sections of Senegalese supporters attempted to force their way onto the playing surface, with the disturbance lasting approximately 15 minutes before security personnel and riot police managed to push them back.

Fans hurled plastic chairs and other projectiles as they clashed with stadium stewards, in scenes that threatened to spiral out of control.

Reports indicate that supporters struck stewards and tried to breach security barriers in their efforts to reach the pitch.

The disorder erupted while Senegal's players had temporarily left the field in protest at the penalty decision.

Manager Pape Thiaw instructed his squad to walk off despite the match being in stoppage time.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino issued a strong rebuke in response to the events, criticising both the crowd trouble and the actions of Senegal's playing staff.

Infantino said: "We strongly condemn the behaviour of some 'supporters' as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. 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."

The FIFA chief emphasised that match officials' decisions must be respected at all times, warning that failure to do so "puts the very essence of football at risk".

He described the scenes as "ugly" and called for them never to be repeated, adding that he expects CAF's disciplinary bodies to take appropriate measures.

The Confederation of African Football released a statement outlining its next steps.

It read: “CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers.

They added: “CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty.”

Senegal head coach Thiaw is expected to receive a substantial suspension for his role in the walkout, despite having apologised for his actions.

The Moroccan football federation has also announced plans to pursue legal action over the incident.

Thiaw's post-match press conference was abandoned after Moroccan journalists booed him, with some clashing with their Senegalese counterparts.

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