2025 AFCON final: Senegal raises concerns over security and fairness

17th January 2026

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A day to the Africa Cup of Nations final, the Senegalese Football Federation has raised serious concerns over what it says are shortcomings in the organisation of Sunday’s showdown against hosts Morocco in Rabat.

In a strongly worded statement released early on Saturday, Senegal said issues relating to security, accommodation, training arrangements and ticket allocation risk undermining the integrity of African football’s biggest match.

The federation said it felt compelled to speak out publicly, warning that without urgent corrective action, the credibility of the tournament could be called into question.

Among the most pressing concerns was security during the team’s arrival in Rabat. Senegal said safety measures at the train station were inadequate, leaving players and officials exposed to overcrowding.

“This lack of security led to congestion around the delegation, which is not in line with the prestige of an Africa Cup of Nations final,” the federation said.

Senegal also revealed it had been forced to lodge a formal protest over accommodation arrangements.

According to the statement, the team was only relocated to a five-star hotel after intervention, a move the federation said was necessary to ensure proper recovery and preparation ahead of the final.

“Following our protest, suitable accommodation was finally allocated,” it said.

Training arrangements have also proved contentious. Senegal confirmed it had formally informed the Confederation of African Football (CAF) of its refusal to train at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, arguing that the facility is the regular base of the Moroccan national team.

The federation said this raised concerns about neutrality and competitive balance, adding that it was still awaiting confirmation of an alternative venue at the time of issuing its statement.

“This situation raises legitimate questions about the integrity of the sporting competition,” it said.

Ticket distribution for the final was described as “worrying”. Senegal said it was allocated only two VIP tickets, with no access to VIP Premium seating, fewer privileges than during the semi-final stage.

Although the federation purchased the maximum number of supporter tickets permitted by CAF, 300 Category One, 850 Category Two and 1,700 Category Three, it said demand from Senegalese fans far exceeded supply.

The statement ended by urging CAF and the local organising committee to act swiftly.

“We call on CAF and the local organising committee to take all necessary corrective measures to ensure that the principles of fair play, equal treatment and security are fully respected,” it said.

The Lions of Teranga, led by Sadio Mané, reached the final after edging Egypt 1–0 in the semi-finals. Morocco booked their place by defeating Nigeria on penalties.

Sunday’s final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium is expected to draw a global audience, with both teams chasing the AFCON title.