The Senegalese Football Federation raised what it described as serious concerns ahead of the match against Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations final, on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdullah Stadium in Rabat.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) issued an official statement expressing its “serious concern” regarding several organizational shortcomings accompanying the preparations of the Senegalese national team.
The statement was published on January 16, 2026, from Tangier, and comes in a context characterized by sporting and logistical tension, as Senegal seeks to win its second title after its victory in 2021 (against Egypt), while Morocco dreams of achieving its first continental triumph at home since 1976.
Main Reasons for Senegalese Concern
- Security and Reception
The Senegalese Federation condemned the absence of a “sufficient security apparatus” upon the delegation’s arrival at the train station in Rabat. The players and coaching staff faced intense crowding and unacceptable risks in a continental final of this magnitude, according to international standards. Although police were present, chaos was evident in the images and videos circulated, leading to sharp criticisms of the organization. - Accommodation
A five-star hotel was not allocated for the national team until after a formal written protest from the Senegalese Federation. Following this step, the “Lions” received suitable accommodation that meets the requirements for recovery and preparation for the big match. - Training Pitch and Familiarization with the Field
The Senegalese Federation categorically refused to use the Mohammed VI training complex, as it is considered the official camp of the Moroccan national team, raising the issue of “sporting fairness.” As of the date of the statement (January 16), the Federation had not received official notification of an alternative stadium, hindering preparations in the final hours before the match. - Tickets and Access to the Stadium
The tickets issue remains the most controversial: the Federation only received two VVIP tickets and was not allowed to purchase additional VIP or VVIP tickets (unlike what happened in the semifinals). As for fans, the Federation purchased the maximum allowed share from CAF: 300 tickets of Category 1, 850 of Category 2, and 1,700 of Category 3 (a total of about 2,850 tickets). However, these numbers remain “completely insufficient” in the face of the enormous demand from Senegalese fans (both domestic and expatriate), which is considered discrimination that harms the Senegalese audience.
The statement concludes with a clear and firm call to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the local organizing committee (Moroccan) to take “all immediate corrective measures” to ensure respect for the principles of fair play, equal treatment, and security – essential elements for the success of the “African Football Festival.”
