The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has suspended Senegal player Krepin Diatta for four matches, with two of those matches being suspended, due to his comments made after Senegal’s loss to Ivory Coast in the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations.

The round of 16 match ended in a 5-4 penalty shootout defeat for the Lions of Teranga after both teams were locked at 1-1 at the end of regulation time. Senegal, who were the African champions, had initially taken the lead through Habib Diallo, but a late penalty converted by Ivory Coast’s Franck Kessie forced the game into penalties.

Following the game, Diatta expressed frustration with the refereeing decisions during the match, specifically regarding a potential penalty that was not called in favour of Senegal.

He stated, “You’ve killed us, you’re corrupt! Keep your African Cup. I’m sorry, but it’s ridiculous. I’m really sorry, but they’ve killed our competition there.”

According to reports, Diatta has been handed a four-match suspension, with two of those matches suspended, meaning he will miss Senegal’s next two official matches. Additionally, the player has been fined USD $16,329.88 (equivalent to Ksh 2,490,306.70) for his comments.

Despite Diatta’s outburst, Ivory Coast went on to win the tournament after beating Nigeria 2-1 in the final with the victory marking their third championship title.