Senegal has launched a scathing attack on Morocco, accusing the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) hosts of deliberate sabotage just 24 hours before the two sides meet in the final.
In an official statement released on Saturday, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) detailed a series of logistical failures and security lapses, claiming the “integrity of the continental showpiece” is at stake.
The “Teranga Lions” are due to face the Moroccan “Atlas Lions” on Sunday in a highly anticipated clash for the gold medal. However, the build-up has been marred by accusations of “systematic hindrance.”
‘Unacceptable’ security and logistics
The FSF listed several grievances that they say have jeopardised their team’s preparation:
- Security breaches: Senegal officials claimed the squad was left exposed to crowds at Rabat train station due to a “clear lack of adequate security measures.”
- Accommodation row: The federation said it had to file a formal protest just to secure a five-star hotel, which it says was only granted after significant pressure.
- Training ground dispute: Senegal has categorically refused to train at the Mohammed VI Complex, pointing out that it is the permanent base of the Moroccan national team.
“This raises a serious question of sporting fairness,” the FSF stated, adding that, as of Saturday morning, they had still not been notified of an alternative training site.
Ticket controversy
The row has extended to the stands of the 53,000-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Senegal officials claim they have been allocated fewer than 3,000 tickets for their supporters.
Even more diplomatically sensitive is the claim that the Senegalese Federation was granted only two VVIP tickets, despite the expected attendance of high-ranking government officials.
Morocco’s response
The Moroccan organising committee and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have yet to issue a formal rebuttal to the specific claims. However, sources within the Moroccan camp have previously pointed to the “world-class” infrastructure provided for all teams throughout the tournament.
The final is one of the most anticipated in recent history, featuring two of Africa’s footballing heavyweights. But with tensions boiling over off the pitch, CAF faces a race against time to calm relations before kick-off on Sunday.
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