Senegalese supporters attempt to invade the field of play after a penalty is awarded by the referee during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Senegal and Morocco. The scene highlights the intense tension and emotions surrounding the controversial decision in this decisive match. January 18, 2026. Photo by Kevin Ngandu Katayi/ABACAPRESS.COM - Photo by Icon Sport

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Release of supporters and ongoing legal battle after the Sénégal-Maroc final

By sahel-express / April 19, 2026

The Africa Cup of Nations final between Maroc and Sénégal, held on January 18, remains a subject of intense debate and legal scrutiny. While the Lions of Teranga were the initial victors on the pitch, a decision by the CAF two months later redirected the trophy to the Atlas Lions. This tumultuous match was marred by significant crowd trouble, leading to prison sentences for several supporters. Recently, three of those individuals were finally released.

The three Sénégal fans had been serving three-month sentences for acts classified as hooliganism during the event. They were being held in a Moroccan prison facility following the incidents that occurred alongside the high-stakes encounter.

The legal accusations against them were serious, involving “acts of violence, specifically targeting law enforcement, damage to sports facilities, pitch invasion, and the throwing of projectiles.” While these three individuals have regained their liberty, the situation remains grim for others; fifteen additional supporters are still incarcerated, serving terms that vary between six months and one year.

Sénégal-Maroc: legal procedures remain active

During an appeal hearing held on Monday, the court chose to uphold the original sentences. This came despite the prosecution’s efforts to seek even harsher penalties, a move that sparked significant frustration from the defense. The legal representatives argued that the fans who ended up on the playing surface were victims of a dangerous crowd surge. One lawyer emphasized that “mistakes occurred, but the people actually responsible for the events are in Sénégal and are not the ones standing trial here.”

As for the official crowning of the champion, the matter is far from settled. Although Maroc was granted a 3-0 victory by forfeit, the Senegalese Football Federation has refused to accept the ruling. The case has now been escalated to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (TAS) for a final determination on the trophy’s destination.

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