AFCON 2025: Senegal FA Hit Out At "Substandard" Final Prep

Ahead of Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final, Senegal has leveled serious accusations against the host nation, Morocco, alleging systematic interference with their match preparations.

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While African football is often punctuated by unconventional controversies—ranging from Nigeria’s frequent disputes over unpaid player bonuses to reports of teams employing “juju” or witchcraft—these latest claims from the Senegal camp are particularly striking.

The Teranga Lions suggest that the tournament organizers have engaged in various forms of manipulation designed to undermine them before they even step onto the pitch. As the 20:00 CET kickoff approaches, these allegations have added a layer of intense friction to what was already a high-stakes final showdown.

The 2021 titleholders allege that they have been denied adequate security, suitable lodging, acceptable practice facilities, and a sufficient ticket allocation for the tournament’s final match.

“The FSF informs the national and international public, as well as the organising bodies, of the ongoing dysfunctions in the preparation for the Africa Cup final,” began the Senegalese Federation in a lengthy statement detailing all their grievances.

Senegal expressed a range of concerns, beginning with the inadequate security measures that reportedly compromised the safety of the players.

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The FSF denounces the clear absence of adequate security measures upon our team’s arrival at Rabat train station. This shortcoming exposed the players and technical staff to close contact with local fans, which falls short of the standards expected for a competition of this magnitude and a continental final,” they explained.

They also expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of their initial accommodation: “Regarding hotel logistics, the FSF has lodged an official protest. Following this action, a five-star hotel was finally assigned to our team, ensuring the right conditions for the final.”

The Senegalese team was also dissatisfied with the training facilities: “The FSF notified CAF of its refusal to train at the Mohamed VI complex. This decision is due to the fact that these facilities are the base of the rival team, raising concerns about sporting fairness.

“Furthermore, the FSF specifies that, to date, it has still not been informed of the training location for the Senegalese team ahead of the final,” they stated.

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