FIFA Opens Investigation into Diafra Sakho AFCON Controversy
The situation surrounding Senegalese striker Diafra Sakho has taken a serious turn, with FIFA confirming it has opened an investigation into the player’s withdrawal from the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
The West Ham forward pulled out of Senegal’s squad for the tournament citing a back injury, with his club declaring him unfit to travel, stating he would be sidelined for six weeks. However, just days later, Sakho appeared in an FA Cup match for West Ham, scoring the decisive goal that sent the Hammers through — a development that quickly sparked outrage in Senegal.
The incident has raised questions about potential breaches of FIFA regulations regarding player availability for national teams. Under current rules, clubs are obligated to release players called up for international duty, unless injury prevents participation — and any such injury must be verified by the national association or an independent medical body.
Sakho’s participation in a domestic fixture so soon after being ruled out of AFCON has left the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) demanding answers. In a statement, the FSF confirmed it would be seeking recourse through FIFA and pursuing compensation, arguing that the player and club undermined the integrity of the competition and national team duties.
The fans, too, reacted strongly. Many took to social media, expressing frustration over what they perceived as a lack of commitment or transparency. In response, Sakho took to his own platforms to defend his position and express regret over missing what would have been his first major international tournament.
“My absence from this 2015 AFCON, my first AFCON, was not without pain,” Sakho wrote. “The dream of contributing to my country’s victory flew away for this year but is not dead! Never doubt the lion that sleeps in me, just as I will never doubt the passion that burns in you.”
FIFA’s investigation will seek to establish whether Sakho and West Ham breached any formal protocols regarding player fitness declarations and international availability. Sanctions could be imposed if any wrongdoing is confirmed, potentially affecting both the player and the club.
As the tournament continues without him, the Sakho affair highlights the tension that often exists between club and country — a longstanding issue in international football. The case remains under review, with further developments expected in the coming weeks.
