Morocco midfielder Ismael Saibari has issued a personal apology to Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy following the controversial towel incident that overshadowed the AFCON 2025 final.
The Africa Cup of Nations showpiece ended with Senegal securing a dramatic 1–0 victory over Morocco after extra time, but the match was marred by chaotic scenes involving ball boys and several Moroccan players allegedly attempting to remove towels placed behind the Senegal goal.
In footage circulated by Senegalese media, Saibari is seen visiting the Senegal team hotel after the final to meet Mendy in an apparent effort to ease tensions and offer an apology. The meeting was not officially publicised, but a video shows the two players sharing a prolonged handshake, signalling reconciliation.
During the match, Achraf Hakimi and Saibari were among those drawn into the incident, which escalated to the point where substitute goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf positioned himself behind the goal to protect the towels from being taken away.
The episode sparked widespread debate and criticism, adding to a final already filled with drama. Saibari’s gesture has since been welcomed as a step toward restoring sportsmanship following one of the most contentious AFCON finals in recent history.