Senegal Airlines has stirred huge reaction on social media after launching a light-hearted search for the young fan who pointed a laser at Mohamed Salah’s face during a decisive penalty against Senegal four years ago.
That infamous moment, in a World Cup qualifying play-off, sparked massive controversy at the time and became one of African football’s most replayed images.
In a playful Facebook post, the airline described the supporter as a “good omen” for the Teranga Lions, saying his image is now tied in fans’ memories to Senegal’s success in key clashes with Egypt. With a fresh showdown between the two teams approaching at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the company announced it wants to find him and reward him with an all-expenses-paid trip to attend the semi-final and cheer from the stands.
Senegal Airlines urged anyone who recognises the fan, or knows his family, to contact them via private messages or tag him in the comments.
The campaign mixes humour with clever sports marketing, even as many still view the original laser incident as unsporting behaviour.
