Senegal files official complaint with CAF ahead of Africa Cup of Nations final against Morocco
In a surprising development just before the final whistle, the Senegalese Football Federation escalated its rhetoric against the Africa Cup of Nations organizing committee, submitting an urgent official complaint to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The complaint included substantial objections to what the Senegalese side described as unsuitable and unprofessional conditions surrounding the "Lions of Teranga" delegation's stay in Morocco, just hours before their highly anticipated match against the Moroccan national team in the tournament final scheduled for Sunday.
Complaint details: Security gaps and a residency crisis
In an official statement released early Saturday morning, the Senegalese Football Federation expressed its deep dissatisfaction with the logistical arrangements encountered by its delegation upon their arrival in Rabat, the capital, from Tangier by train. The statement explained that the delegation faced a clear lack of security measures, leading to chaos and undesirable overcrowding around the players. The Federation considered this a jeopardy of the safety of the players and coaching staff, a situation unbecoming of a final match in a major continental tournament.
The objections weren't limited to security; they extended to the accommodation. The Senegalese Football Federation confirmed that it had to submit official correspondence to change the assigned hotel, stating that the initially proposed accommodation did not meet the required standards for the players' comfort before a crucial match. The statement did not, however, provide specific details about the nature of the rejected accommodation.
Controversy over training grounds and the principle of equal opportunities
Perhaps the most contentious point in Senegal's complaint concerns training facilities. The Senegalese Football Federation has categorically refused to hold its training sessions at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. Senegal's refusal is based on the fact that this complex has been the Moroccan national team's permanent training ground throughout the tournament, and they continue to train there in preparation for the final. The Senegalese side believes that using the same stadium raises legitimate questions about "sporting fairness" and equal opportunity, especially since they have not been notified of an alternative venue, which has disrupted the team's media and preparatory schedule.
Limited tickets and fan expectations
Regarding fan attendance, the Senegalese Football Federation expressed its disappointment with the ticket allocation for its supporters, which was limited to only 2,850 tickets, the maximum number set by CAF. The Federation considered this number far too low given the overwhelming demand and desire of Senegalese fans to support their national team, and called for a review of the restrictions to ensure a fan presence befitting the reputation of both teams.
Context of the confrontation: The struggle for African leadership
This administrative crisis only adds to the already tense atmosphere ahead of a final that carries significant historical and technical weight. The Moroccan national team, the tournament hosts, enters the match determined to end a drought of nearly five decades since their sole continental title win in 1976, bolstered by home advantage, a supportive crowd, and a state-of-the-art infrastructure that has undergone a major transformation in recent years.
In contrast, the Senegalese national team is experiencing its most glorious footballing era, as it seeks to confirm its dominance over African football and add a new title to its trophy cabinet after the historic victory in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. This match is considered a major clash between two great footballing schools on the continent, as each side aspires to impose its control and lead the African football scene.
The Senegalese Federation concluded its statement by calling on CAF and the relevant authorities to intervene immediately to ensure respect for the principles of fair play and to provide the security and organizational conditions that guarantee that the African football celebration will be presented in the best possible way, far from any administrative disturbances that may affect its outcome on the green field.
