Senegal’s winger, Krepin Diatta, expressed strong criticism against the Confederation of African Football (CAF), accusing the organisation of corruption following Senegal’s elimination from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by hosts Ivory Coast on Monday.
In a highly charged round of 16 clash that ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, Senegal eventually succumbed to a 5-4 defeat on penalties against Ivory Coast.
Diatta’s frustration escalated due to a controversial moment in the second half when Senegal felt they were denied a clear penalty.
The incident occurred when Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr went down in the Ivory Coast box in a collision with defender Odilon Kossounou.
Despite Senegal leading 1-0 at the time after an early goal by Habib Diallo, Gabonese referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho did not award the penalty and did not consult the pitchside monitor to review the footage.
Expressing his displeasure after the match, Diatta directed strong words towards CAF staff, accusing them of corruption and questioning the integrity of the competition.
“You have killed us. You are corrupt. Keep your African Cup,” Diatta, who plays for Monaco, reportedly said to CAF staff.
Diatta was particularly incensed by the inconsistency in VAR decisions, highlighting the referee’s willingness to consult VAR for a penalty awarded to Ivory Coast, while neglecting to review the incident involving Sarr.
“You go to the VAR to give them a penalty, while our guy (Sarr) picks up the ball 40 metres from goal, goes on a run into the box and you don’t want to go to the VAR?
“I’m sorry, but that is going too far. I am really sorry, but they have killed our competition,” Diatta added, expressing his frustration at what he perceived as biassed officiating.
