Regis Le Bris on Chemsdine Talbi and Habib Diarra after bizarre AFCON final ruling | OneFootball

Sunderland’s Habib Diarra and Chemsdine Talbi have been left in an unusual position after the African Cup of Nations final was overturned, with Regis Le Bris acknowledging the impact on both players.

The showpiece was goalless in stoppage time when a VAR review gave Morocco a penalty for a foul on Brahim Diaz, prompting Senegal boss Pape Thiaw to lead his side off for about 17 minutes before they returned. Edouard Mendy saved Diaz’s kick and the referee ended normal time soon after. In extra time Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye scored, seemingly sealing the trophy for Diarra and his team-mates.

The Confederation of African Football appeals board later ruled that Senegal had breached tournament regulations by leaving the pitch. CAF confirmed that Senegal forfeited the match and the official result is recorded as 3-0 to Morocco. As a result, Diarra has technically been stripped of his title, with Senegalese authorities vowing to appeal.

Le Bris has called the saga a bit weird for the pair, adding that his players still feel the winner was decided on the pitch and that subsequent changes do not carry the same weight.

Looking ahead, he also noted that the international break could arrive at a good time for Sunderland, who face Newcastle United on Sunday then have three weeks before their next Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur.

Source: Sunderland Echo