The contention surrounding the CAN 2025 final continues to generate significant debate. Following a contentious ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) appeal jury on March 17, which controversially awarded Morocco a 3-0 victory by default, despite Sénégal’s 1-0 triumph on the field, the Fédération Sénégalaise (FSF) has escalated the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Concurrently, another sensitive case is unfolding: the legal proceedings against 18 Senegalese football fans accused of hooliganism. These charges stem from incidents that occurred during the final match on January 18. Initially sentenced on February 19 to prison terms ranging from three months to one year, their appeals were heard this past Monday in Rabat.
Court discussions indicated that defendants who received three-month sentences might be eligible for release as early as next Saturday. During their appearance, the accused consistently maintained their innocence. However, the prosecution sought more severe penalties, recommending imprisonment for up to two years. The supporters face charges including assault against law enforcement, unauthorized pitch entry, and throwing objects.
« Mistakes were made »
The defense presented a contrasting account. Supporters testified that they were compelled to move onto the playing surface due to crowd surges or to avoid being subjected to « spitting and projectile throwing », rather than to dispute any referee’s decision. « There were errors, the individuals truly responsible for what happened are in Sénégal and are not present here, » stated Patrick Kabou, one of their lawyers.
The hearing was also marked by a procedural clash. The defense requested the broadcast of video footage of the incidents to definitively identify the accused. This request was denied by the prosecution, who invoked the concept of `flagrant délit`, asserting: « The entire world witnessed those regrettable images live. »