Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has sought to ease tensions following the dramatic and controversial conclusion to the Africa Cup of Nations final, insisting that unity across the continent will endure despite the disorder that overshadowed the closing moments of Sunday’s match against Senegal.
The final, staged in Morocco, was brought to a halt late in regulation time after a VAR review awarded the hosts a penalty. The decision sparked fury on the Senegal bench, with players briefly walking off the pitch in protest before returning following prolonged discussions. The delay stretched for more than ten minutes, heightening emotions inside the stadium and beyond.
While Morocco ultimately missed the spot kick, Senegal regrouped and went on to secure a 1-0 victory in extra time, claiming their second AFCON title. However, scenes off the pitch threatened to eclipse the football.
Groups of Senegalese supporters attempted to enter the playing area and clashed with Moroccan security forces, adding to an atmosphere already charged with tension.
In a statement released by the royal palace on Thursday, King Mohammed VI acknowledged that the final had been marred by “regrettable incidents” and “deplorable behaviour,” but struck a conciliatory tone as he looked beyond the fallout.
He stressed that the bond between African nations, and between Morocco and Senegal in particular, would ultimately withstand the strain of the moment.
The King underlined the depth of ties between the two countries, noting their long history of cooperation and partnership. Senegal remains one of Morocco’s closest allies on the continent, with Moroccan companies and banks playing an increasingly prominent role in Senegal’s economy as Rabat continues to expand its diplomatic and commercial footprint across Africa.
In the hours following the final, social media platforms in both countries were awash with heated exchanges, reflecting the raw emotions left by the night’s events.
Yet the King’s message was clear: once passions cool, shared values and common interests would reassert themselves.
“Once the passion and emotions have subsided, inter‑African fraternity will naturally prevail,” he said.
“Nothing can undermine the close ties forged over the centuries between our African peoples, nor the fruitful cooperation built with countries across the continent and strengthened by increasingly ambitious partnerships,” he added.
Football authorities are now expected to address the incidents formally. The Confederation of African Football has confirmed it will review the events and take “appropriate action,” while FIFA President Gianni Infantino publicly condemned the conduct of Senegal players and members of the coaching staff.
