President of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Gianni Infantino has condemned the "unacceptable" scenes that marred the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat. 

A dramatic player walk-off threatened to derail the continent's showpiece event.

Senegal claimed their second continental title with a 1-0 win over hosts Morocco, but the victory has been overshadowed by a technical protest and reports of crowd trouble that Infantino stated have "stained" the sport.

The tension at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium reached a breaking point in the final minutes of normal time. With the match deadlocked at 0-0, the referee awarded Morocco a penalty following a lengthy VAR review, a decision that sparked fury on the Senegalese bench. 

In a move rarely seen in international football, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw ordered his players to leave the pitch. As the squad disappeared down the tunnel in protest, veteran striker Sadio Mane remained alone on the field, eventually acting as a mediator to convince his teammates to return.

The resulting 16-minute delay left the home crowd in Rabat stunned, and FIFA President Infantino, watching from the stands, was visibly incensed.

Shortly after the trophy presentation, Infantino did not hold back his criticism of the Lions of Teranga’s conduct. He stated that the scenes witnessed were unacceptable and that football cannot be held to ransom by such actions. 

He further described the events as a stain on the sport and confirmed his expectation for a full investigation into the matter.

Infantino's rebuke extended beyond the dugout. He also addressed reports of violence involving sections of the travelling Senegalese support, insisting that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) must take appropriate action to ensure such breaches of discipline are not repeated.

When play finally resumed, the psychological toll of the delay appeared to weigh heavily on Morocco. Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz saw his attempted 'Panenka' penalty easily smothered by Edouard Mendy, a moment that irrevocably shifted the momentum.

Senegal seized the lifeline in extra time, with Pape Gueye firing home a spectacular winner to silence the home fans. 

Despite the celebrations in Dakar, the fallout is only just beginning. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) has confirmed it will file formal legal complaints regarding the disruption to the match. 

Meanwhile, Senegal boss Pape Thiaw has since apologised for the walk-off, admitting that his side should not have taken such drastic action despite their frustrations with the officiating.

With FIFA and CAF officials under pressure to act, Senegal could now face heavy fines or stadium bans. While the victory marks a historic sporting achievement for the nation, the chaotic path to the podium ensures this final will be remembered as much for its controversy as for its football.