By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Senegal international Pape Matar Sarr has called for the release of Senegalese football supporters detained in Morocco following the Africa Cup of Nations final, describing their continued detention as an injustice and urging authorities to show leniency.
The midfielder voiced his concern after reports emerged that 18 Senegalese supporters were arrested and detained for alleged acts of violence linked to the Morocco vs Senegal final, sparking widespread reactions among fans and football stakeholders.
“30 days in detention for supporters whose only mistake was supporting their team with passion. We strongly denounce this injustice and demand their release,” Sarr said in a statement circulated on social media and regional sports platforms.
The arrests are believed to be connected to disturbances surrounding the highly charged final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations hosted in Morocco, which saw tensions escalate between supporters and authorities.
Following the final, CAF’s disciplinary process confirmed that serious incidents occurred around the match, leading to sanctions against both federations and officials involved, highlighting the volatile atmosphere surrounding the fixture.
Although CAF sanctions mainly targeted officials and football bodies, separate legal proceedings in Morocco reportedly focused on individual supporters accused of public disorder and violence.
Sarr’s intervention reflects growing concern within Senegal’s football community, where supporters, activists, and public figures have urged Moroccan authorities to release the detained fans or ensure fair legal treatment.
The issue has also intensified diplomatic and sporting discussions, given the strong football rivalry and emotional significance of the AFCON final.
As of now, Moroccan authorities have not publicly confirmed any release or final court verdict regarding the detained supporters. The case remains ongoing, with increasing pressure from football personalities and fan groups across Africa.
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