By Enitan Abdultawab Following the controversy surrounding goalkeepers’ use of towels during the recently concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, Olivier Safari, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Referees Committee, has hinted that the body may move to review current regulations governing their use.
When Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was continually distracted by stadium officials interfering with the towels placed behind his goal during the semi-final match between Nigeria and host nation Morocco, the controversy became apparent.
Fans and commentators criticized the lack of control around the field when videos of the disruptions went viral.
During the final, the problem reappeared and became more intense, implicating the host country once more.
During the game, ball boys, stewards, and even players handled or removed Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towels. Achraf Hakimi, the Africa Footballer of the Year, was seen stealing Mendy’s towel from the goal area in a widely shared video.
When Yehvann Diouf, Senegal’s backup goalie, tried to protect the towels, tensions increased even further.
The final was briefly overshadowed by chaotic scenes as stewards and ball boys chased Diouf around the field before forcibly escorting him off.
Senegal went on to win the AFCON title in spite of the interruptions. The Senegal Football Federation, head coach Pape Thiaw, and certain Senegalese supporters are reportedly facing possible punishments as a result of the incidents.
Olivier Safari, President of the Confederation of African Football Referees Committee, responded to the incident by acknowledging that it revealed a regulatory loophole and hinting at potential modifications for upcoming competitions.
In an interview with Canal+ Afrique, Safari stated, “This is a problem organizers must take into account in future competitions.” He warned against using towels improperly and pointed out that they are not officially recognized as playing equipment. “A goalie must carry a towel in a fair-play and sporting manner. I think it should be taken out of the playing area once it is being used to yell commands or affect the game.
