Morocco coach suspension explained, national teams fined after post-match incident

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has levied disciplinary measures against the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and the Congolese Federation of Association Football (FECOFA) following heated incidents at the end of the Morocco vs. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) match in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (CAN 2023).

National coach Walid Regragui received a four-match suspension, with two matches deferred for a year. This stems from a verbal exchange with the Congolese captain, Chancel Mbemba, who accused Regragui of racist remarks - claims the coach vehemently denies.

Both FRMF and FECOFA were fined $20,000 each. FRMF received an additional $10,000 fine, with $5,000 suspended, for the use of smoke bombs by Moroccan supporters.

The FRMF announced it will appeal the verdict, particularly Regragui's suspension. This decision adds further drama to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the tournament.

After the January 21st match, where the drama unfolded, CAF initiated an investigation into the incidents. The disciplinary actions announced, Wednesday, reflect the findings of that investigation.

Regragui's suspension will impact Morocco's upcoming matches in the tournament. With Morocco already securing the top spot in Group F, it remains to be seen how his absence will affect their performance in the knockout stages.

The Confederation emphasized that all decisions are enforceable upon the expiry of the appeal period, as per the governing Disciplinary Code.