Morocco coach Walid Regragui has been handed a four-game ban, with two games suspension and a $5,000 fine, following his involvement in his players’ clash against DR Congo.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also levied fines totalling $20,000 on both the football federations of Morocco and DR Congo.
The heated exchange between Regragui and Congo captain Chancel Mbemba unfolded after their teams played to a 1-1 draw in San Pedro. Tensions escalated into a melee involving players and officials from both sides, extending into the players’ tunnel.
While Mbemba suggested that Regragui insulted him, the coach vehemently denied making any racist comments. The fallout from the incident included racist abuse directed at Mbemba on social media and alleged death threats against Coach Regragui.
The Moroccan federation said it will appeal CAF’s “unjust decision” to ban Regragui because the coach “did not commit any behavio r that violates the spirit of sportsmanship.”
Regragui watched from the stands as Morocco beat Zambia 1-0 in their final group game late Wednesday.
Regragui and Congo captain Chancel Mbemba had a heated exchange after their team’s match ended 1-1 in San Pedro on Sunday.
It led to a melee between players and officials from both teams that continued as they went down the players’ tunnel.
Mbemba implied to journalists after the game that Regragui insulted him, but the Morocco coach on Tuesday denied making any racist comments.
Mbemba’s Instagram account was subjected to a stream of racist abuse, while Regragui said he received death threats in the fallout.
TV replays showed Regragui seeking Mbemba after the game when the player was on his knees giving thanks in a personal moment.
Mbemba took Regragui’s hand and clapped him on the back. But Regragui kept hold of Mbemba’s hand and carried on talking. He appeared to be saying, “Look at me.” The player angrily pulled his hand away and gestured for the video referee before players from both sides jumped in.
