Thierry Henry: Arsenal Legend Identifies Biggest Problem With AFCON - 'They Are Not at The Level'

Arsenal and France legend Thierry Henry has criticised the refereeing standards at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final, stating that the officiating failed to live up to the high quality of the tournament.

The former France international also condemned Senegal's reaction during the controversial match against Morocco.

Henry’s comments follow a turbulent final where Senegal clinched a 1-0 victory in extra time. The match was marred by a series of contentious incidents that led to significant delays and widespread confusion, overshadowing what had been a celebrated competition.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Google News, Stay informed with Latest Sport News

The Arsenal icon argued that the chaotic scenes in the final were a direct result of poor officiating, a recurring issue he observed throughout the tournament. He believes the referees were ill-equipped to handle the immense pressure of such a high-stakes game.

A lengthy VAR review that resulted in a late penalty for Morocco became a major flashpoint. The decision prompted a furious response from the Senegalese team, who briefly walked off the pitch in protest. Henry suggested that this breakdown in control and communication from the officials only escalated an already volatile situation.

"Watching the AFCON for a very long time, the referees are not at the level of the show," Henry stated on CBS Golazo. "All the stuff that happens in those tournaments sometimes are made because of referee mistakes."

"I’m not blaming the referee; I’m blaming the people that are not training them to be at the level of the football that we’re watching, and that’s about it. Other than that, like I said so many times, it was a great tournament."

While pointing to inadequate training for officials, Henry was equally critical of Senegal's decision to leave the field. He praised Morocco for its excellent organisation of the tournament but felt the scenes during the final were damaging to the sport's image.

"What you saw, the reaction of the team of Senegal wanting to leave the field was wrong," he asserted. "That’s not the image that you want to give, not just for African football, but for any football."

Senegal's coach, Pape Bouna Thiaw, had ordered his players off the pitch after the penalty was awarded. Several players were heading for the tunnel before Sadio Mané intervened and persuaded them to return. Henry acknowledged the high emotions of a final but insisted such behaviour is unacceptable.

Following a 14-minute delay, Morocco's Brahim Diaz had his Panenka-style penalty saved by Edouard Mendy. Pape Gueye later scored the decisive goal in extra time, securing Senegal's second AFCON title in three tournaments. However, Henry lamented that the final will be remembered for controversy rather than celebration.