AFCON Fallout: Senegal alleges unfair treatment despite final victory

The President of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), Abdoulaye Fall, has accused Morocco and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of bias following a tense and controversial Africa Cup of Nations final.

Fall made the allegations despite Senegal’s 1- 0 victory over hosts Morocco, insisting that events surrounding the final raised serious questions about fairness, organisation and neutrality at Africa’s flagship football tournament.

According to the FSF chairman, Senegal encountered difficulties from the moment the team arrived in Morocco, including concerns over security, accommodation and training arrangements.

“What we experienced before and during the final did not reflect the principles of fairness expected at this level of competition,” Fall said.

He claimed the conditions surrounding the match created an uneven environment and accused CAF of failing in its responsibility to ensure equal treatment for both finalists.

Fall also criticised the handling of match officials, particularly the late confirmation of the refereeing team, which he said undermined transparency.

“The late announcement of match officials was unacceptable and denied us the opportunity to raise legitimate concerns in advance,” he said.
“Neutrality is essential in football administration, but in this case, it was difficult to ignore the influence Morocco holds within CAF structures.”

The final itself was marked by controversy after a Senegal goal was disallowed and a penalty was awarded to Morocco following a VAR review. Senegal’s players briefly protested during the match, highlighting the tension surrounding the officiating decisions.

“The events during the match, including VAR decisions and interruptions, only added to the confusion and pressure on the players,” Fall noted.
“When footballers feel compelled to protest on the pitch, it shows that confidence in officiating has been shaken.”

Morocco failed to convert the penalty, and Senegal eventually secured the winning goal in extra time to lift the trophy.

CAF has since condemned the disorder that characterised the final and has indicated that disciplinary measures may be considered. The organisation has rejected claims of bias, insisting that all teams were treated equally and that competition regulations were fully observed.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino also criticised the conduct witnessed during the final, stressing that respect for match officials must be upheld at all times.

Despite the backlash, Fall maintained that Senegal’s complaints were not about the result but about protecting the integrity of African football.

“Winning the trophy does not mean we should remain silent when we believe the integrity of the competition is at stake,” he said.