The Senegalese Football Federation expressed its “deep dismay” and “bewilderment” at the sentences handed down by a court in Rabat, which imprisoned 18 Senegalese fans for terms ranging from three months to a year. The federation described the sentences as “incomprehensibly harsh” and “disproportionate,” raising the prospect of renewed sporting tensions between the two neighboring countries following the riots that erupted after the African Nations Championship final.
Background to the events and the context of the tense match
The incident dates back to the final match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), hosted by Morocco. The final, between Senegal and Morocco, was played in a highly charged and competitive atmosphere. Tensions escalated following controversial refereeing decisions, including awarding a penalty to Morocco and disallowing a Senegalese goal, before the "Lions of Teranga" secured the title in extra time with a 1-0 victory. This charged atmosphere spilled over from the pitch into the stands, where post-match riots broke out, including some fans invading the field and throwing projectiles. This led to the intervention of Moroccan authorities and the arrest of several Senegalese fans.
Legal details and rulings issued
The Moroccan judiciary charged the 18 fans with "stadium riots," an offense under Moroccan law (Law 09-09 amending the Penal Code regarding violence committed during matches) that includes acts of violence against security forces, damage to property and sports equipment, pitch invasion, and throwing projectiles. Specifically, the court sentenced nine of them to one year in prison and a fine of 5,000 dirhams (approximately €460), while six others received six-month sentences and fines of 2,000 dirhams (€180), and the remaining three were sentenced to three months in prison and fines of 1,000 dirhams (€90).
Senegalese reactions and the impact of the case
In an official statement and remarks from its officials, the Senegalese Football Federation strongly condemned the sentences. AFP quoted Bakary Cissé, head of the federation's media committee, as saying: "We express our deep dismay and bewilderment at the verdict against the fans… This decision, characterized by incomprehensible harshness, is deeply infuriating." He added that what he considered a "flagrant injustice" was alarming, noting that riots occur in many stadiums around the world without resulting in such severe punishments. For his part, Patrick Kabou, the defendants' lawyer, stated that the matter was "incomprehensible," suggesting that his clients were being used as "scapegoats.".
Regional dimensions and the future of sports relations
This incident raises questions about the sporting relationship between Morocco and Senegal, countries that share strong political and economic ties. Although the incident occurred within a sporting context, it could have repercussions at the popular level. It also highlights the determined efforts of Moroccan authorities to combat stadium violence, a growing concern for authorities across North Africa. As Morocco prepares to host major sporting events such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, this incident puts the standards for dealing with foreign fans under scrutiny and underscores the need to balance strict enforcement of the law with ensuring a positive visitor experience.
