Football

CAF considers rule changes on goalkeepers’ towels after AFCON Morocco controversies

Published

7 hours ago

January 28, 2026

Olusegun Odunewu

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By Anuoluwa Amao

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) may review its regulations on the use of towels by goalkeepers following a series of controversial incidents that occurred during the just-concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The possibility of regulatory changes was raised by the President of the CAF Referees Committee, Olivier Safari, who reacted to several disruptions involving goalkeepers’ towels that drew widespread criticism and overshadowed key moments of the tournament.

The controversy first came to the fore during the semi-final encounter between Nigeria and host nation Morocco. Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was repeatedly distracted as towels placed behind his goal were interfered with by stadium officials.

Videos of the incident circulated widely on social media, prompting backlash from fans and football analysts who questioned the level of pitch control and match organisation.

The issue resurfaced during the tournament final, once again involving the host nation. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy experienced similar disruptions, with ball boys, stewards and even players seen handling or removing towels placed near his goalpost.

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In one widely shared clip, Africa Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi was captured taking Mendy’s towel from the goal area, further fuelling debate.

Tensions escalated when Senegal’s substitute goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, attempted to intervene and protect the towels.

Reports indicated that Diouf was chased around the pitch by stewards and ball boys before being forcibly escorted away, creating chaotic scenes that briefly detracted from the prestige of the final.

Despite the distractions, Senegal went on to clinch the AFCON title. However, the incidents may have lasting consequences beyond the pitch.

Reports suggest that CAF is considering possible sanctions against sections of Senegal’s supporters, head coach Pape Thiaw, and the Senegal Football Federation over conduct during the final.

Speaking to Canal+ Afrique, Safari acknowledged that the incidents exposed a gap in existing regulations and hinted that CAF could act ahead of future tournaments to prevent a recurrence.

“This is a problem organisers must take into account in future competitions,” Safari said, noting that towels are not officially recognised as part of standard playing equipment.

He cautioned against their misuse, adding: “When a goalkeeper carries a towel, it must be done in a sporting and fair-play manner. Once it is used to shout instructions or influence the game, I believe it should be removed from the playing area.”

The comments have sparked renewed debate over match-day organisation and fair play, with many calling on CAF to provide clearer guidelines to ensure goalkeepers are not unfairly distracted in high-stakes fixtures.