The International Sports Press Association (AIPS) has condemned the conduct of journalists following Sunday’s chaotic African Cup of Nations final between Morocco and Senegal. The post-match press conference was disrupted as videos showed Moroccan journalists walking out when victorious Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw entered holding his daughter’s hand. This sparked arguments and physical scuffles between Moroccan and Senegalese media, continuing until Thiaw himself left.
Senegal’s 1-0 victory was overshadowed by farcical scenes, including Thiaw ordering his players off the pitch to protest a penalty awarded to Morocco. In a statement, AIPS strongly denounced the behaviour that prevented a smooth press conference, stating it “cannot accept that certain colleagues could tarnish the dignity of our profession.” The association has requested a detailed report on the incident from AIPS Africa. The winning goal came from midfielder Pape Gueye in the 94th minute, after Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed a last-gasp penalty in normal time following a 14-minute delay.
