BREAKING: CAF bans goalkeepers from placing towels in goal area

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has moved to clamp down on the use of towels by goalkeepers inside or around the goal area during matches, warning that the practice violates the Laws of the Game, Sport360NG reports.

The directive was confirmed on Tuesday by the CAF Referees Committee, with its president, Olivier Safari Kebene, outlining the body’s position while addressing the media.

Kebene explained that the ruling is a straightforward application of the laws governing football, which stipulate that the field of play must be free from any objects not classified as player equipment.

“It is very simple, and we have been clear with our match officials,” Kebene said. “According to the Laws of the Game, the field of play must remain clear of any foreign objects that are not part of the players’ equipment. A towel is not considered player equipment. It is not a jersey, it is not a pair of shorts, and it is not gloves.”

While acknowledging that goalkeepers often rely on towels, particularly in hot or humid conditions, Kebene stressed that such items must not be left within the goal area.

“We understand the practical need, but these items must be kept away from the goal area,” he added. “They should be placed behind the advertising boards or with the team staff.”

CAF further noted that towels placed inside the side netting or close to the goalposts could influence play, distract opponents, obstruct the referee’s view of the goal line, or potentially interfere with the ball during match situations.

The decision is expected to affect several high-profile goalkeepers across African competitions, including Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali and Senegal’s Edouard Mendy, among others.