A Moroccan court has sentenced 18 Senegalese football fans to prison terms ranging from three to twelve months for hooliganism during last month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final, where Senegal defeated Morocco 1-0 on home turf.
Sentences and Fines
The group, detained since January 18, faced charges of disrupting the match and committing acts of violence broadcast live on television. While the prosecution sought penalties of up to two years, the court handed down lighter sentences:
- Nine supporters: one year in prison and fined 5,000 dirhams ($545)
- Six supporters: six months in prison and fined 2,000 dirhams
- Three supporters: three months in prison and fined 1,000 dirhams
Defence lawyers said they would appeal the verdict, describing it as “incomprehensible.”
Match Chaos
The heated final saw Senegalese supporters attempt a pitch invasion, while Senegal’s players halted the game for nearly 20 minutes to protest a late penalty awarded to Morocco. Fans were also seen throwing objects, including a chair, onto the field.
Evidence and Legal Arguments
The prosecution based its case on stadium surveillance footage and medical reports documenting injuries among security forces and stewards. Defence lawyers argued the footage did not provide irrefutable proof that the accused assaulted anyone.
Lawyer Naima El Guellaf said the defendants should not be “tried twice,” noting that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) had already sanctioned the Senegalese federation for supporters’ behavior. However, civil party lawyer Mustapha Simou countered that CAF’s sanctions did not exempt individuals from criminal responsibility.
Material damage to the stadium was estimated at 4 million dirhams ($430,000).
Wider Implications
The verdict comes as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, raising concerns about crowd management and security at major tournaments.
Conclusion
The sentencing highlights Morocco’s tough stance on football-related violence and underscores the broader challenge of ensuring fan discipline at high-stakes matches. With appeals pending, the case continues to spotlight tensions between sporting sanctions and criminal accountability.
