What really happened with Mendy’s towel in the AFCON final? Ismael Saibari responds

Saibari apologises again

What really happened with Mendy’s towel in the AFCON final? Ismael Saibari responds

Morocco midfielder Ismael Saibari issued new apology after the “towel incident” involving Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy in AFCON 2025 final.

Controversy from the AFCON final returns

Morocco international Ismael Saibari again expressed regret over the incident that became known as the “towel controversy” during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final against Senegal.

The episode took place during the tense closing moments of the final on Sunday which was already marked by high emotion and controversy.

Television footage showed ball boys and staff attempting to take towel belonging to Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy while Moroccan players including Saibari were also seen involved in the situation.

One clip also showed Achraf Hakimi throwing the towel away behind the advertising boards adding to the confusion during already dramatic match.

A final full of tension

The AFCON 2025 final included several heated moments. Senegal briefly left the pitch after Morocco were awarded late penalty before returning to complete the match.

Mendy later saved Brahim Diaz’s spot kick and Senegal went on to win the trophy after Pape Gueye scored the decisive extra time goal sealing 1-0 victory for the Lions of Teranga.

Against that backdrop, the towel incident quickly became another major talking point after the match.

Saibari: “It was a mistake”

Speaking to ESPN, Saibari admitted that his actions were wrong. He said he only understood the seriousness of the situation after returning home.

“It was mistake. I know I was wrong and that is why I apologised” Saibari said.

The PSV Eindhoven midfielder explained that he immediately contacted someone from the Senegal camp to offer apology. He also revealed that he apologised directly to Edouard Mendy when they met later at the airport.

Saibari added that the matter has now been settled and that everyone should move forward.

Senegal backup goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf who plays for Nice also spoke about the strange scenes.

He said ball boys had asked Senegal players to “play fair” which surprised him given the attempt to take Mendy’s towel during the match.

Saibari stressed that the final played in highly emotional atmosphere and that his reaction was impulsive during difficult moment.

Emotions high in a historic final

AFCON finals often bring intense pressure and the Morocco 2025 edition was no exception.

Between the late penalty drama, Senegal’s walk off and the towel incident.. the match became one of the most discussed finals in recent tournament history.