At Least 18 Senegalese Nationals Face Prosecution After AFCON 2025 Final Chaos In Rabat

Moroccan authorities have taken swift legal action following the dramatic and controversial scenes that unfolded during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final between Senegal and Morocco.

At least 18 Senegalese nationals are now facing prosecution after being arrested for their alleged involvement in crowd disorder during the high-profile final in Rabat — a night that was already heavy with tension both on and off the pitch.

Court Action Follows Chaotic AFCON Final

According to Moroccan prosecutors, formal legal proceedings have been launched against 18 Senegalese supporters accused of disrupting the AFCON 2025 final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Speaking to AFP, defence lawyer Naima El Gallaf confirmed that all defendants are currently being held in custody under the orders of the public prosecutor. The accused appeared in court on Thursday for an initial hearing, but the session was postponed following requests from both the defence and the civil party to allow adequate preparation time.

The next court hearing has been scheduled for January 29 in Rabat, as authorities continue to investigate one of the most controversial nights of the tournament.

Disorder Inside Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium

The arrests stem from serious disturbances that erupted inside the stadium during Sunday’s final, which Senegal won 1–0 against the host nation.

Reports indicate that close to 1,000 Senegalese supporters attempted to breach restricted pitch-side areas before the end of regulation time. The disruption reportedly lasted nearly 15 minutes, causing major concern for match officials and security personnel.

Security forces struggled to restore order as some supporters allegedly threw objects onto the pitch, including at least one stadium seat. The situation forced organisers to intervene decisively to secure the area and ensure the match could conclude safely.

Algerian Supporter Also Detained

In a related development, one Algerian supporter has also been detained in connection with the incident. His lawyer, Jaouad El Benaissi, told AFP that his client is a French citizen of Algerian origin who denies any involvement in violence.

The individual has reportedly been described as a sports management expert, and his legal team insists he was wrongly implicated.

A Final Already Clouded By Controversy

The crowd trouble added another layer of drama to a final that had already been overshadowed by controversial refereeing decisions, VAR debates, and heightened emotions between players, officials, and fans.

With CAF launching investigations into multiple aspects of the final, AFCON 2025 may be remembered as much for its off-field turmoil as for Senegal’s hard-fought triumph.

As the legal process unfolds, African football once again finds itself navigating the delicate balance between passion, discipline, and global scrutiny.

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