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The President of the Referees Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Olivier Safari, has said the body may review rules on goalkeepers’ towels following controversy at the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The issue first came to light during Nigeria’s semi-final match against hosts Morocco, when Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was repeatedly distracted by stadium officials who interfered with his towels. Videos of the incident later spread across social media.
Similar scenes were seen again during the final involving Senegal and Morocco. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy was repeatedly disturbed as ball boys, stewards and players handled or removed his towels. The current African Footballer of the Year, Achraf Hakimi, was also seen stealing Mendy’s towel in one viral video.
The situation escalated when Senegal’s reserve goalkeeper, Yehvann Diouf, tried to protect the towels. He was later chased around the pitch by stewards and ball boys before being removed, further disrupting the match.
Despite the incidents, Senegal went on to win the tournament. However, CAF may still consider sanctions against supporters, the Senegal coaching crew and the Senegal Football Federation.
Speaking on Canal+ Afrique, Safari said the matter could lead to changes in regulations.
“This is a problem the organisers must take into account in future competitions,” Safari said.
“A towel is not equipment for a player or a goalkeeper.
“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 that towel should be removed from the playing area.”
