Senegal's Prime Minister Condemns 'Deplorable' Afcon Final Incidents
Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has publicly described the scenes during the controversial Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco as "deplorable" and "painful". His remarks come as the Confederation of African Football considers potential sanctions against the Senegalese national team following the dramatic match.
Controversial Final Sparks Pitch Invasion Attempt
The controversy erupted during the final when Senegal's players walked off the pitch in protest at a VAR-awarded penalty decision. Although they later returned to secure a 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco in extra time, the match was marred by significant crowd disturbances.
During the contentious penalty incident, a group of Senegalese supporters attempted to enter the pitch, leading to clashes with Moroccan security personnel. Eighteen Senegalese fans have since been arrested and are set to face trial in Morocco, while social media users from both nations have traded accusations in the aftermath.
Diplomatic Response Amid Sporting Tension
Speaking at the opening of a Moroccan-Senegalese joint commission in Rabat exactly one week after the final, Prime Minister Sonko acknowledged the charged atmosphere. He stated the context was "charged with sporting emotion, deplorable misconduct and images that have at times been painful for two peoples deeply bound to one another."
The Prime Minister added that "the misbehaviour observed here and there should neither be denied nor dramatised," suggesting the incidents should be understood as emotional excesses fuelled by passion rather than political or cultural rifts. This marks the first time a senior Senegalese official has addressed the final's events in such terms.
Football Authorities Consider Disciplinary Action
The Moroccan football federation has announced it is pursuing legal action with both CAF and FIFA following the incidents. CAF has stated it will take "appropriate action" after reviewing match footage and reports, while FIFA President Gianni Infantino has specifically condemned the conduct of Senegal's players and coaching staff.
Despite the tensions, diplomatic relations between the two nations appear to remain intact. Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye publicly congratulated his team in Dakar and thanked Morocco for its organisation of the tournament. Senegal is a close ally of Morocco, notably backing its sovereignty over the disputed territory of Western Sahara.
Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, speaking at the same joint commission event, highlighted the centuries-old strong ties between the nations but notably did not congratulate Senegal on their victory. Morocco's king had previously stated the tournament was a success for Africa and that the "regrettable incidents" would not undermine African fraternity.
