Senegalese Football Federation apologises for chaos at Sudan qualifier

The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has issued an apology following widespread organisational problems during Saturday’s World Cup qualifying match between Senegal and Sudan at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio.

The fixture, part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, was overshadowed by chaotic ticketing arrangements, widespread black-market sales, and severe difficulties in press accreditation.

Supporters also reported areas of the stadium being occupied by unauthorised individuals, adding to the disorder.

In a statement released on Sunday, the FSF acknowledged the failures and offered sincere apologies for these incidents, recognising the frustration caused to fans and media alike.

The federation admitted that ticketing, accreditations and the occupation of certain areas by unauthorized persons had created major disruptions.

The governing body attributed the problems to the limited preparation time available.

The short period of time between the handover on September 2 and the match on September 5 was cited as a key factor behind the disorganisation.

Led by President Abdoulaye Fall, the FSF assured supporters and stakeholders that measures would be taken to prevent a repeat.

Our objective is to guarantee each supporter a perfect experience and impeccable organization for the next matches, the statement added.

The federation’s apology comes against the backdrop of high expectations surrounding the national team, which remains firmly in contention for qualification to the 2026 finals.

For many Senegalese fans, the on-field performance of the Lions of Teranga remains a source of pride, but Saturday’s chaotic scenes served as a reminder of the importance of effective organisation off the pitch.

As preparations continue for the next rounds of qualifiers, the FSF has pledged to learn lessons from the Sudan match, with a focus on ensuring transparent ticketing processes, secure accreditation procedures, and tighter control of stadium access.

The incident has sparked criticism from sections of the media and supporters, who have urged the federation to modernise its organisational practices to match the stature of one of Africa’s leading footballing nations.

For now, the FSF’s response is aimed at restoring trust ahead of future home fixtures.

With the World Cup dream still alive, fans will be hoping the focus can soon return to matters on the pitch rather than problems off it.

🚨 FSF réagit après le chaos de Sénégal–Soudan : l’instance reconnaît des couacs sur la billetterie et les accréditations, présente ses excuses et promet des mesures correctives pour les prochains matchs.#Dsports | pic.twitter.com/ZXFt4vBHDw

— Khadim Diakhaté (@Ahmadoubamba36) September 7, 2025