RABAT: Moroccan police have arrested 18 Senegalese supporters and one Algerian national following violent scene that erupted during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and host nation Morocco on Sunday night.
According to reports by AFP via RMC Sport, the Senegalese fans were taken into custody for questioning over alleged acts of hooliganism inside the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, while the Algerian suspect is accused of inciting disorder during the chaos.
The arrests followed a tense and controversial end to the match, after several spectators attempted to invade the pitch amid protests over a refereeing decision late in the game.
The situation escalated when Senegal head coach, Pape Thiaw, ordered his players to walk off the pitch during stoppage time in protest, prompting a temporary suspension of the final and sparking angry scenes involving fans and match officials.
Although Thiaw later apologized for his actions, he is reportedly facing a lengthy suspension, while the Moroccan Football Federation has announced plans to pursue legal action over the incident.
Despite the turmoil, Senegal eventually clinched the AFCON title with a 1–0 victory after Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal in extra time.
However, the historic triumph was overshadowed by controversy surrounding a disputed late penalty awarded to Morocco, which triggered Senegal’s initial walkout.
After a delay of more than 15 minutes, Senegal’s players returned to the field. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz then failed to convert the penalty, with his attempted Panenka easily saved by former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, forcing the match into extra time.
While Senegal celebrated their continental success, post-match violence and crowd unrest cast a shadow over what was expected to be a memorable AFCON final.
