A viral video circulating on social media has captured the moment Senegal’s third-choice goalkeeper swiftly intervened to stop Moroccan fans from taking goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

 

In the video, the Senegalese substitute goalkeeper is seen alertly retrieving the towel from the edge of the pitch after it appeared fans were attempting to grab it, a move that drew praise online for his quick thinking and team spirit. The incident occurred amid heightened tension in the final moments of the match, when goalkeeping routines and superstitions were at their peak.

 

The clip has reignited memories of a similar incident involving Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, whose towel was allegedly taken by fans during Nigeria’s semi-final loss to Morocco. Many football fans have linked both moments, suggesting that such acts may be intended to disrupt goalkeepers’ concentration, especially during crucial stages of major tournaments.

 

Social media users have reacted strongly, with some applauding the Senegalese goalkeeper’s awareness, while others criticized stadium security and fan behavior. “That towel is part of a goalkeeper’s mental preparation,” one user wrote, while another described the act as “gamesmanship taken too far.”

 

The comparison between both incidents has fueled broader conversations about player protection, matchday ethics, and the need for stricter enforcement of pitch-side security at international tournaments.

 

As AFCON continues to deliver drama both on and off the pitch, the viral moments serve as a reminder of how even the smallest details can influence high-stakes football encounters.