Senegalese supporters attempt to invade the field of play after a penalty is awarded by the referee during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and Morocco. The scene highlights the intense tension and emotions surrounding the controversial decision in this decisive match. January 18, 2026. Photo by Kevin Ngandu Katayi/ABACAPRESS.COM - Photo by Icon Sport
The Senegal vs Morocco Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final, originally won by Senegal but later awarded to Morocco after a controversial CAF decision, continues to spark debates. The match, marred by fan disturbances, resulted in legal consequences, including prison sentences for several supporters. Notably, three Senegalese fans have recently been released from Moroccan custody after serving three-month sentences for alleged hooliganism.
The charges against them included violent acts against law enforcement, destruction of sports equipment, pitch invasions, and projectile throwing. While these three individuals are now free, fifteen others remain imprisoned, facing sentences ranging from six months to a year for similar offenses.
legal battles continue in the aftermath of the controversial final
During Monday’s appeal hearing, the initial convictions were upheld, despite prosecutors pushing for harsher penalties—a move that drew strong reactions from the defense team. The lawyers argued that the fans on the pitch had been forced there due to crowd surges, stating, «there were errors, and those involved are not present here—they are in Senegal».
The dispute over the trophy’s final attribution also persists. Although Morocco was awarded the victory by default (0-3), the Senegalese Football Federation has taken the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), prolonging the legal and administrative fallout.
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