The highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations final on January 18th, which saw Maroc triumph over Sénégal, continues to generate significant discussion. Initially, the coveted trophy was claimed by the Lions of Teranga, but it was subsequently awarded to the Lions of the Atlas two months later following a controversial decision by the CAF. This tumultuous final was marred by various incidents, leading to confirmed prison sentences against several supporters. Notably, three of these individuals have recently been released.

This past Saturday, reports emerged, confirming the liberation of three Senegalese fans. These individuals had been serving a three-month custodial sentence in a Moroccan prison for alleged acts of “hooliganism” that occurred during the final match.

The charges leveled against them encompassed a range of offenses, including “acts of violence, particularly against law enforcement, damage to sports facilities, pitch invasion, and throwing projectiles.” While these three are now free, they were not the only ones detained. Media outlets have highlighted that an additional fifteen supporters remain incarcerated, serving sentences ranging from six months to a full year.

Sénégal-Maroc: legal proceedings persist

During Monday’s appeal hearing, the sentences for the accused were upheld. This decision came despite the prosecution’s request for even harsher penalties, a stance that understandably angered the defense team. During the proceedings, the defense argued that supporters who entered the pitch did so involuntarily, pushed by a surging crowd. “Mistakes were made, and the individuals truly responsible for what transpired are located in Sénégal and are not present here,” stated one of their legal representatives.

Meanwhile, the definitive allocation of the championship trophy remains unresolved. Although Maroc has been declared the winner by default with a 0-3 scoreline, the Senegalese Football Federation has escalated the matter to the Tribunal arbitral du sport (TAS), seeking a final resolution.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst