Senegal’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final have hit a last-minute snag, with the team refusing to train on the pitch designated by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
With less than 48 hours remaining until the final against host nation Morocco, uncertainty surrounds the Lions of Teranga ahead of their final training session, scheduled for Saturday afternoon at 5:00 PM local time.
According to sources, the Senegalese Football Federation has deemed the CAF-selected pitch unsuitable for the team, citing concerns over quality and safety standards.
“The pitch initially proposed by CAF does not meet the standards required for our players,” a federation official explained. “We are working with CAF to find a suitable alternative to ensure optimal preparation for the final.”
The issue adds to a series of logistical challenges for Senegal in the Moroccan capital.
Reports indicate that fans have struggled to secure tickets to the stadium, while the team’s arrival in Rabat on Friday was met with what some described as a lackluster reception, heightening frustration among the delegation.
Despite the setback, head coach Pape Thiaw and his staff remain focused on maintaining morale and readiness ahead of Sunday’s clash.
“We are in constant discussion with CAF to resolve this matter quickly,” said a member of Thiaw’s technical team. “The players’ preparation is our top priority, and we are confident a solution will be found in time for our final session.”
The disagreement over the training venue underscores the complexities of hosting a high-profile AFCON final, particularly when involving a visiting team with strict preparation protocols.
Senegal’s refusal reflects a desire to ensure that players like Sadio Mane and his teammates can train under optimal conditions, maintaining both performance levels and safety ahead of a pivotal match.
CAF officials are reported to be in ongoing talks with the Senegalese federation, aiming to resolve the dispute before the team’s final session.
While no alternative venue has yet been publicly confirmed, both parties are expected to reach an agreement promptly to avoid disrupting the team’s pre-match routine.
As the countdown to the final continues, attention now turns to how the logistical issues will be managed.
With Senegal and Morocco set to face off at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the resolution of the training ground dispute will be closely watched, with both teams seeking to fine-tune strategies ahead of what promises to be a highly competitive and eagerly anticipated continental showdown.
The Senegalese squad is expected to complete their final preparations as soon as a suitable training pitch is confirmed, keeping their focus firmly on challenging Morocco for the AFCON 2025 title.
