Morocco were awarded a penalty in the eighth minute of stoppage time after a video assistant referee review, shortly after Senegal had a goal ruled out in a decision which did not go to VAR.
The Senegal players, including coaching staff, all apart from former Liverpool winger Sadio Mane left the pitch in frustration in a move that summed up how fans felt after the controversial decision.
Mane admitted his country would have been "crazy" not to finish the game and soon his side did return to win the final in dramatic fashion.
However, despite winning the competition, Senegal will not avoid punishment for delaying the game and staging what is one of the most widely talked about protests in world football.
Tournament organisers, the CAF, have condemned the behaviour. In a statement, the confederation said: "CAF condemns the unacceptable behaviour of some players and officials during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final between Morocco and Senegal in Rabat last night.
“CAF strongly condemns any inappropriate behaviour which occurs during matches, especially those targeting the refereeing team or match organisers. CAF is reviewing all footage and will refer the matter to competent bodies for appropriate action to be taken against those found guilty."
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also condemned the move, suggesting that Senegal will face swift punishment in due course.
"We strongly condemn the behaviour of some 'supporters' as well as some Senegalese players and technical staff members. It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner," said Infantino in a statement sent to AFP.
"It is unacceptable to leave the field of play in this manner, and equally, violence cannot be tolerated in our sport, it is simply not right."