CAF considers towel ban after AFCON controversy
The Confederation of African Football is considering new rules on towel use by goalkeepers after incidents at the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Olivier Safari, president of the CAF Referees Committee, highlighted disruptions involving towels during key matches. Stanley Nwabali and Edouard Mendy were both affected by interference from stadium officials and players. The controversy has sparked debate about fair play and possible sanctions for those involved.
Match highlights
- Olivier Safari suggested that CAF may review or change regulations regarding towels for goalkeepers.
- The issue began during Nigeria’s semi-final against Morocco, when Stanley Nwabali was distracted by officials interfering with his towels.
- In the final, Edouard Mendy of Senegal faced similar interference, including an incident where Achraf Hakimi took his towel.
- Senegal’s reserve goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, tried to protect Mendy’s towels but was chased and removed by stewards and ball boys.
- Despite the chaos, Senegal won the title, but the incidents could lead to sanctions for their supporters, coach Pape Thiaw, and the Senegal Football Federation.
