CAF mulls new rules on goalkeepers’ towels after AFCON row
The Confederation of African Football may introduce stricter rules on the use of goalkeepers’ towels after controversial incidents at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Olivier Safari, president of the CAF Referees Committee, said the episodes exposed a gap in current regulations. The issue first drew attention during the semi final between Nigeria and hosts Morocco, when Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was repeatedly distracted as stadium officials interfered with towels placed behind his goal. Videos of the scenes went viral and sparked criticism from fans and analysts over poor pitchside control. The matter intensified in the final, again involving the host nation. Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy also faced interference, with ball boys, stewards and players handling or removing his towels. In one widely shared clip, Morocco star Achraf Hakimi was seen taking Mendy’s towel from the goal area. […]
