Morocco Demands Two-Year Prison Sentences for 18 Senegalese Fans After AFCON Final Clashes
Moroccan prosecutors have formally requested prison terms of up to two years for 18 Senegalese supporters who were arrested during the Africa Cup of Nations final in 2025. The fans have been held in pre-trial detention since January 18, the day of the highly charged match in Rabat, where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time.
Prosecution Presents Evidence of Disruption and Violence
According to reports from Africa Top Sports, prosecutors at the Rabat Court of First Instance argued that the accused individuals intentionally sought to disrupt the proper conduct of the match. They cited acts of violence that were broadcast live on television, including attempts by some supporters to invade the pitch and others throwing objects, such as a chair, onto the field. The prosecution's case is supported by surveillance footage from the stadium, medical reports detailing injuries to security personnel, and evidence of material damage estimated at over $430,000.
Prosecutors emphasized that the disturbances undermined public order and endangered spectators and staff, with some defendants facing harsher penalties for what they described as organized hooliganism rather than spontaneous celebration. However, the accused fans have denied any wrongdoing, and their legal representatives contend that the incidents have been exaggerated and that responsibility should not be placed solely on a small group of supporters.
Senegal Mobilizes Diplomatic and Legal Efforts in Response
In Senegal, the situation has escalated into a national concern. The Senegalese football federation has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the case with utmost attention, while the government is fully mobilized to engage Moroccan authorities on behalf of the detained fans. Senior players have also expressed support, calling for fairness and respect for due process.
Adding urgency to the diplomatic efforts, the 18 supporters began intermittent fasting in early February to protest their interrogation conditions, as reported by One Football. Senegalese officials have urged calm among the public, expressing confidence that ongoing talks and legal channels could lead to a positive resolution.
Broader Implications for African Football and Major Tournaments
This incident has cast a shadow over what should have been a celebration of African football, reigniting debates over crowd control and fan conduct at major sporting events. It occurs at a sensitive time for Morocco, which is preparing to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, highlighting the importance of maintaining order and safety in international competitions.
In a related development, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed sanctions on both Morocco and Senegal over the scenes during the AFCON 2025 final. The match, where Senegal lifted their second AFCON trophy, was marred by the violence that soured the grand finale, underscoring the need for stricter measures and cooperation between nations to prevent such incidents in the future.
