The buildup to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final has taken a dramatic turn as the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) officially accused host nation Morocco of systematic sabotage.
In a statement released on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the FSF outlined a series of logistical "failures" that it claims have jeopardized the safety and preparation of the Teranga Lions.
The controversy began following Senegal’s semi-final victory over Egypt in Tangier.
The federation alleged that upon arriving in Rabat by train, the delegation—including star players and technical staff, were met with a complete lack of security.
The FSF stated that the team was exposed to crowds and risks "incompatible with the standards of a competition of this magnitude."
They also slammed the initial hotel arrangements provided by the local organizing committee, describing the accommodations as "substandard" and unfit for professional athletes' recovery.
According to the FSF, it took an official written protest to force a relocation to a suitable 5-star hotel.
In a move that highlights the growing tension, Senegal has categorically refused to use the Mohammed VI Football Complex for its final training sessions.
The FSF argued that the facility serves as the primary training base for the Moroccan national team, creating a clear conflict of interest and an "issue of sporting fairness."
As of Saturday morning, the Senegalese federation claimed it had still not been notified of an alternative, official training site for their final preparations.
The "sabotage" allegations extended to the stands of the 53,000-capacity Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The FSF revealed that Senegalese supporters have been allocated fewer than 3,000 tickets for the final.
Even more insulting to the visiting delegation was the allocation of only two VVIP tickets for Senegalese dignitaries, with no option provided to purchase more.
The FSF described these restrictions as a move to "penalize the Senegalese public."
The off-field fireworks come just 24 hours before the two giants of African football meet on the pitch.
Senegal is chasing its second-ever AFCON title after their 2021 triumph, while Morocco is looking to lift the trophy for the first time in 50 years.
With the atmosphere in Rabat now reaching a boiling point, all eyes will be on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to see how it mediates this brewing diplomatic and sporting crisis before Sunday’s kickoff.
