Senegal fans face long prison terms after can final controversy

Almost four months after the African Cup of Nations final—where Senegal initially won in extra time (1-0) before being awarded a 3-0 forfeit by the CAF Appeals Committee—Moroccan authorities continue to hold imprisoned Senegalese supporters in Rabat. While three individuals have been released, those accused of storming the pitch, confronting stewards, and clashing with police remain in detention, facing sentences ranging from six months to a year.

During a televised address, Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye addressed the plight of the Lions of Teranga fans, many of whom received harsh penalties. « It would be wrong to believe we haven’t done enough for our detained supporters in Morocco. They have my full backing, » he emphasized, as reported by Afrik-Foot.

Diplomatic efforts to secure fan releases

Senegal’s government has exhausted multiple avenues to secure the freedom of its nationals detained post-final. « We must respect the rule of law, but the severity of these sentences is unjust. Typically, such cases result in fines… yet here, the punishment far exceeds the scope of the incident, » President Faye noted. The administration sought to ease tensions with Morocco, which has maintained a firm stance following the violent scenes that marred the continental tournament.

Despite Senegal not appealing the judgments handed down by Moroccan courts, diplomatic channels remain active. « I formally requested His Majesty King Mohammed VI to pardon our supporters. We’ve pursued mediation across all relevant stakeholders… even explored a religious-mediated resolution, » the President disclosed. However, the impasse persists, leaving families and advocates in limbo.