The chaotic scenes that marked the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 final may have dealt a setback to Morocco’s ambition of hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup final, with Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu now emerging as a stronger contender.
Spanish newspaper AS reported that the controversial incidents surrounding the AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal could have a direct bearing on the race to stage the World Cup showpiece. The contest, according to the report, is primarily between the Santiago Bernabéu and the Casablanca stadium, which is still under construction.
In its report published on Tuesday, AS noted that images from the final circulated widely across the globe, placing Morocco’s organisational capacity under scrutiny, even though it was the Senegalese team that threatened to withdraw from the pitch. The newspaper argued that scenes of disorder, attempts by fans to storm restricted areas, and the refereeing controversy combined to project a negative image of Morocco’s ability to manage an event of such magnitude.
The report added that criticism intensified following what it described as “unacceptable” actions, including attempts by some ball boys and Moroccan players to distract Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy by pulling away his towel before the decisive penalty kick. According to AS, a similar tactic had previously been used successfully during the semi-final against Nigeria.
The newspaper also highlighted claims from the Senegalese camp that three players suffered food poisoning after the match. These accusations were coupled with earlier complaints over what was described as inadequate security reception at Rabat train station, a limited ticket allocation for Senegalese supporters, and the absence of a separate training facility away from the Moroccan national team’s base.
While acknowledging the widespread praise Morocco received for infrastructure quality and fan engagement throughout the tournament, AS maintained that the final left a visible “stain” on the country’s World Cup bid. The paper pointed to escalating refereeing disputes and allegations of favouritism toward the host nation, particularly after a Senegalese goal was disallowed shortly before a controversial penalty was awarded to Morocco.
In contrast, AS argued that the Santiago Bernabéu continues to strengthen its position, benefiting from what it termed a “clean” history of hosting major finals and its reputation for flawless organisation at global events. The stadium’s candidacy is also said to be strongly backed by the Spanish Football Federation in its submissions to FIFA.
Although the newspaper emphasised that relations between Spain, Morocco and Portugal remain solid within the framework of the joint 2030 World Cup bid, it suggested that the choice of venue for the final could be significantly influenced by the events that unfolded in Rabat, as FIFA awaits a final decision.
