The stage is set for a historic AFCON final between Senegal and Morocco this Sunday, but the atmosphere in Rabat is anything but calm.
The Senegalese Football Federation has officially escalated a series of grievances to CAF, citing concerns ranging from tactical integrity to player safety.
The “Spying” Stand-off
At the heart of the dispute is the training venue. The Teranga Lions have flatly refused to utilize the world-class Mohammed VI Football Complex.
Their reasoning is purely strategic: Morocco is based directly opposite the facility. Senegal officials stated that “their sessions could easily be monitored and recorded,” prompting an urgent request for CAF to provide a more secluded alternative to protect their tactical secrets.
Ticketing Turmoil
The friction extends to the stands. Senegal expressed frustration over a perceived lack of hospitality regarding match access, revealing they were initially allocated only two VVIP tickets.
While they managed to secure a combined 2,850 tickets across various categories through independent efforts, the federation insists this is insufficient.
They argue that the allocation fails to accommodate the “large Senegalese community currently in Morocco,” and claim their ability to purchase more was intentionally restricted.
Security and Focus
Finally, the team’s arrival in Rabat was reportedly marred by logistical lapses. The federation described the security arrangements as insufficient, claiming players were left exposed to crowds.
They have categorized the current environment as “not conducive” for the level of focus required for a continental final.
As CAF scrambles to respond, the pressure is mounting. Whether these complaints are a tactical play to deflect pressure or a genuine outcry against host-nation bias, one thing is certain: Sunday’s final will be played on an edge that extends far beyond the pitch.