Authorities hosted the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final in Rabat on January 18, 2026. Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 after extra time. A late penalty award to Morocco sparked protests. Senegal players walked off the pitch, causing a 20 minute delay. Fans attempted to storm the field and threw objects, including a chair.
Arrests Followed Immediately
Police arrested 18 Senegalese fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. They faced charges of hooliganism and violence. Officials detained them in pre-trial custody since that day. Additionally clashes occurred between players and journalists from both nations.
Prosecution Presents Evidence
Prosecutors sought up to two years in prison for the fans on February 19, 2026. They argued that defendants “deliberately sought to disrupt the proper conduct of the match.” Surveillance footage showed acts of violence broadcast live. Medical reports detailed injuries to security forces. Stadium damage exceeded $430,000.
Defense Denies Wrongdoing
The fans denied any involvement in the disruptions. Patrick Kabou, their lawyer, stated that clients waited to learn charges since January 18. He noted they spoke only Wolof but faced questioning in French and Arabic. However hearings were postponed due to a lawyers’ strike. The trial resumed next week.
Broader Repercussions
Meanwhile the Confederation of African Football fined Senegal $615,000 and Morocco $315,000. It banned Senegal coach Pape Thiaw and several players. Ousmane Sonko, Senegal’s prime minister, called the incidents “deplorable” and “painful.”
Samir Sobha, a CAF executive committee member, apologized to Morocco and claimed it was “robbed.” The fans staged a hunger strike in early February to protest delays.
