Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has urged the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take decisive action against the Moroccan Football Association following what has now become one of the most talked-about controversies of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The former England defender was reacting to viral footage showing ball boys repeatedly removing towels belonging to Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy during the AFCON final against Morocco. A similar incident had earlier occurred in Nigeria’s semi-final clash, where ball boys were also seen taking away towels used by Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

“That Was Insane” – Ferdinand

Speaking on the Rio Presents Podcast, Ferdinand did not hide his frustration, describing the act as unacceptable and unsporting.

“The worst one (during the AFCON) was the ball boys trying to get the towels to stop the goalkeeper from drying his hands. That was insane,” Ferdinand said.
“Someone has to get a hold of the Moroccan FA at some point. We need explanations.
“What right do they’ve to not let goalkeepers dry their hands? It is a part of the game.”

His comments echo the growing outrage among fans and analysts who believe the actions went beyond gamesmanship and crossed into deliberate interference.

A Repeated Pattern Raises Eyebrows

What has intensified the debate is the recurrence of the incident. The fact that similar actions were recorded in two separate matches involving different goalkeepers has led many to question whether it was coincidence or a coordinated tactic.

Goalkeepers rely on towels to maintain grip, especially in high-pressure matches. Denying them access can directly influence performance — a situation many see as a violation of fair play principles.

Opinion: CAF Must Act to Protect the Integrity of AFCON

Ferdinand’s call for accountability is not just about towels; it is about protecting the credibility of African football. AFCON has made significant strides in global perception, and controversies like this risk undermining those gains.

CAF must go beyond silence or mild warnings. A clear investigation, public explanation, and firm sanctions if wrongdoing is proven would send a strong message that manipulation — no matter how subtle — has no place in the game.

If African football truly wants respect on the global stage, then fair play must be non-negotiable. As Ferdinand rightly pointed out, drying a goalkeeper’s hands is not a privilege — it’s part of football.