Senegal raise alarm over ‘unfair treatment’ ahead of AFCON final vs Morocco

Senegal have raised the alarm ahead of Sunday’s 1XBET Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against host nation Morocco, accusing organisers of unfair treatment and actions capable of undermining the spirit of fair play.

In a statement released early Saturday, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) complained about what it described as poor security arrangements, accommodation issues, training ground controversies and ticketing restrictions since the team’s arrival in Rabat.

The Teranga Lions, who travelled by train from Tangier to Rabat on Friday, reportedly encountered serious security lapses on arrival.

According to the federation, the absence of adequate security exposed players and officials to overcrowding and unnecessary risks, a situation it said was unacceptable for a continental final of such magnitude.

“This deficiency exposed the players and technical staff to overcrowding and risks incompatible with the standards of a competition of this magnitude,” the FSF stated.

The federation also revealed that it was forced to submit a formal written complaint before acceptable hotel accommodation was eventually provided for the team. While details of the initial lodging were not disclosed, FSF described the experience as far from befitting AFCON finalists.

Training arrangements also emerged as a major flashpoint. Senegal categorically rejected the proposal to train at the Mohammed VI Football Complex — Morocco’s long-time tournament base — arguing that it raised serious questions about sporting fairness.

FSF said as of Saturday morning, it had still not received confirmation of an alternative training venue, despite the final drawing closer.

Ticketing was another source of frustration. Senegal was allocated just 2,850 tickets for its supporters, a figure the federation described as grossly inadequate considering the demand and the importance of the match.

The final will be played at the 69,500-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where Morocco have enjoyed overwhelming home support throughout the tournament.

Calling for urgent intervention, the Senegalese federation urged the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the local organising committee to act immediately.

“We call on CAF to take all corrective measures necessary to guarantee fair play, equal treatment and security,” the statement said.

Senegal stressed that it went public with the complaints in the interest of transparency and to protect the integrity of its national team.

Morocco are chasing their first AFCON title in 50 years, while Senegal are aiming to win the competition for a second time after lifting the trophy in 2021. With tensions already rising off the pitch, Sunday’s final now promises to be as politically charged as it is sporting.