AFCON 2025 final fallout deepens as Senegalese fans’ case in Morocco takes new turn

The aftermath of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Rabat continues to generate controversy, as a legal case involving detained Senegalese supporters in Morocco takes another unexpected twist.

While Senegal celebrated a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco, the scenes off the pitch told a very different story.

What began as jubilant celebrations among Senegalese fans quickly escalated into unrest, leading to the arrest of 18 supporters on charges related to rioting.

The incident unfolded on January 18 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, which had been packed with fans for the highly anticipated final.

Following the decisive extra-time goal from Pape Gueye, tensions in the stands spilled over, resulting in clashes that prompted swift intervention from Moroccan authorities.

In the days that followed, the Rabat Court of First Instance handed down prison sentences ranging from three months to one year to the 18 fans. The ruling sparked outrage in Dakar, with Senegalese officials describing the punishments as excessive.

Since then, the Senegal government has remained actively engaged, reaffirming its commitment to protecting its citizens abroad. The Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs and Senegalese Abroad confirmed that a team of lawyers, supported by the Senegalese Embassy and Consulate in Morocco, is handling the defence of the detained supporters.

Developments on the sporting front have further complicated the situation. The Confederation of African Football Appeals Committee ruled on March 17 to award the match to Morocco administratively, overturning the result on the pitch.

The decision triggered widespread dissatisfaction in Dakar, prompting the Senegalese Football Federation to lodge an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport, describing the situation as a “double injustice” affecting both the national team and its supporters.

Hopes for a swift resolution have now been delayed. A hearing initially scheduled for Monday in Morocco has been postponed to April 13, following a request from one of the defendants of French-Algerian nationality, according to Senegalese authorities.

As a result, the 18 detained fans face an extended wait before their case is revisited.

The development adds another layer to an already complex humanitarian and legal situation, which continues to strain relations between Dakar and Rabat while families of the detainees remain in anxious anticipation of a resolution.