Senegal was the bookmaker’s favourite in the 2023 AFCON but was eliminated in Round 16 via penalty kicks against the eventual winners Ivory Coast.
In the Group Stage, Senegal beat the Gambia 3-0, Cameroon 3-1 and Guinea 2-0 which further made them more favourites ahead of the knockout phase.
The wounded Ivory Coast won 5-4 on penalties against the Lions of Terranga after a 1-1 draw in 120 minutes. Habib Diallo opened the scoring early in the 4th minute of the game for Senegal as Nicholas Pepe was fouled in the 85th minute by Edouard Mendy which resulted in a penalty. Frank Kessie converted it to level the score 1-1. No winner was found in the extra time so a penalty shootout separated them with the host carrying the day.
“You’ve killed us, you’re corrupt! Keep your African Cup. I’m sorry, but it’s ridiculous. I’m sorry, but they’ve killed our competition there,” ranted Diatta after the game.
Krepin Diatta went too far by criticising CAF and using derogatory words to describe them. The penalty he commented on was clear as Mendy fouled Pepe.
CAF sat on the issue and has given a huge sanction to the Senegalese midfielder cum defender.
Diatta will serve a Four-match ban as he will miss the next two official matches for Senegal.
In addition, Diatta has been fined USD 16,329.88 as the Senegalese FA is obligated to remit it.
The decision to give Diatta a heavy suspension and fine is spot on as Gabonese referee Pierre Atcho got his decision right.
