Senegal FA Slams CAF and Morocco Over Alleged Unfair Treatment Ahead of Key Fixture
The Senegal Football Federation (FSF) has released a strongly worded statement condemning what it described as unfair treatment, disrespect, and deliberate attempts to destabilize the national team by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and tournament hosts Morocco.According to the statement, Senegal raised multiple serious concerns relating to the welfare, preparation, and competitive fairness of their team during the ongoing tournament.One of the major issues highlighted was the lack of adequate security arrangements, which the federation says exposed players, officials, and supporters to unnecessary risks.
The FSF stressed that player safety is a fundamental responsibility of both CAF and the host nation, and any compromise in this area is unacceptable.The federation also complained about poor accommodation standards, describing the facilities provided to the Senegalese delegation as below the level expected for an international tournament of such magnitude. They argued that substandard lodging affects player recovery, preparation, and overall performance.Another point of contention was CAF’s decision to restrict Senegalese fans from purchasing match tickets. Despite the stadium having a seating capacity of approximately 69,000, Senegal was reportedly allocated only 2,000 tickets. The FSF described this move as unfair and contrary to the spirit of football, stating that fans play a crucial role in motivating players and creating a balanced match atmosphere.
Perhaps the most controversial allegation involved the team’s training arrangements. Senegal claimed they were instructed to train directly opposite the Moroccan team’s lodge, a situation they believed left their training sessions and tactical preparations open to monitoring. The Senegal FA revealed that they rejected the facility and requested an alternative venue, but CAF allegedly failed to provide another option.The federation described these actions as psychological “mind games” aimed at destabilizing the defending champions, adding that such practices undermine sportsmanship and the integrity of the competition.In its concluding remarks, the Senegal FA emphasized that hosting a tournament should not translate into unfair competitive advantage.
The federation called on CAF and FIFA to uphold their responsibility of ensuring a level playing field, fairness, and respect for all participating nations. “Football must be decided on the pitch, not through off-field manipulation,” the statement implied, urging governing bodies to take immediate steps to protect the credibility of African football.
