Just hours before the biggest match in African football, the Senegalese Football Federation has publicly raised alarm over what it describes as “multiple shortcomings” in the organisation of the Africa Cup of Nations final against hosts Morocco, warning that the issues risk undermining the integrity of Sunday’s showpiece in Rabat.
In a strongly worded statement released in the early hours of Saturday, the federation said it felt compelled to alert both African and international audiences to concerns surrounding security, accommodation, training arrangements and ticket allocations, calling on organisers to act swiftly to safeguard fair play and equal treatment.
“We wish to inform national and international public opinion, as well as the organising bodies, of our deep concern regarding the numerous shortcomings observed during the preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations final,” the statement said.
Security arrangements questioned on arrival
One of the most serious concerns raised relates to the Senegal team’s arrival in Rabat, where the federation said security measures at the train station were inadequate.
According to the statement, players and technical staff were left exposed to overcrowding, a situation Senegal believes does not reflect the standards expected for a continental final.
“This lack of security led to congestion around the delegation, which is not in line with the prestige of an Africa Cup of Nations final,” the federation noted.
Accommodation issue resolved after formal protest
The federation also confirmed that it had been forced to submit a formal written complaint over accommodation arrangements before a resolution was reached.
Only after intervention, Senegal said, was the team relocated to a five-star hotel, which it considers essential for optimal recovery and preparation at this decisive stage of the tournament.
“Following our protest, suitable accommodation was finally allocated, ensuring the necessary conditions for player recovery,” the statement explained.
Training venue dispute escalated to CAF
Training facilities have emerged as another flashpoint.
Senegal revealed that it formally informed Confederation of African Football of its refusal to train at the Mohammed VI Football Complex.
The federation argued that the venue is the regular training base of the Moroccan national team, raising concerns about neutrality and competitive balance.
“This situation raises legitimate questions about the integrity of the sporting competition,” Senegal said, adding that it had yet to receive official confirmation of an alternative training venue at the time of issuing the statement.
Ticket allocation described as “worrying”
Ticket distribution for the final was also described as “concerning”, with Senegal stating that its official allocation included only two VIP tickets and no access to VIP Premium seating, unlike arrangements during the semi-final round.
The federation confirmed it had purchased the maximum number of tickets allowed by CAF for supporters — 300 Category One, 850 Category Two and 1,700 Category Three — but said demand far exceeded supply.
“Despite purchasing the full quota authorised by CAF, these numbers remain insufficient given the level of demand from Senegalese supporters,” the statement said.
Call for urgent corrective measures
Senegal concluded by urging CAF and the local organising committee to intervene immediately to address the issues raised, stressing that the credibility of African football’s flagship tournament is at stake.
“We call on CAF and the local organising committee to take all necessary corrective measures to ensure that the principles of fair play, equal treatment and security are fully respected,” the federation said.
The Lions of Teranga, led by Sadio Mané, reached the final after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt in the semi-final, while Morocco advanced by defeating Nigeria on penalties.
Sunday’s final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium is expected to attract a global audience, with Senegal bidding for a second consecutive continental title and Morocco seeking a first AFCON crown since 1976.
