By Angu Lesley
Tournament organisers and Moroccan authorities have firmly rejected claims of ill-treatment made by the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) during the Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that the reigning champions were provided with conditions fully in line with CAF standards throughout the competition.
In a detailed response to the criticisms, organisers said Senegal benefited from optimal logistical, sporting and security arrangements from the start of the tournament through to the final.
Base camp and match venues
According to the organisers, Senegal established their official base camp at the Fairmont Tazi Palace in Tangier and played all their matches at the Grand Stade de Tanger.
They say this allowed the team to enjoy stability and high-level conditions throughout the competition, with facilities described as “fully compliant with CAF standards”.
Travel to Rabat for the final
Concerns raised about the team’s journey to Rabat ahead of the final were also dismissed. Organisers stressed that the decision to travel by high-speed train (TGV) was made independently by the FSF.
They added that the federation publicly communicated the date and time of the delegation’s arrival at Rabat-Agdal station, which naturally led to a large gathering of Senegalese supporters.
“This was similar to scenes observed when the team arrived,” the organisers said, rejecting suggestions that the situation posed a security risk.
Security assurances
Moroccan authorities insist that a comprehensive security plan was deployed, involving the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), auxiliary forces, dedicated logistical resources and the station’s regular security services.
They confirmed that no incidents, public disorder or threats to the safety of Senegal’s delegation were recorded.
Hotel and training choices
On accommodation in Rabat, organisers said the FSF, like all teams at the tournament, was offered a choice between two transit hotels: Hotel Rihab in central Rabat and the Amphitrite Palace in Skhirat.
They noted that Hotel Rihab had previously hosted Tanzania and Cameroon during knockout-stage matches against Morocco, and that Senegal freely opted for the Amphitrite Palace.
Regarding training facilities, the Mohammed VI Football Complex was initially made available to Senegal. However, organisers say the FSF chose not to use it and instead requested the auxiliary pitch at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, which was duly allocated.
Ticket allocation
Finally, claims related to access to tickets for players and staff were also rebutted. Organisers confirmed that Senegal received the regulatory allocation of 5% of total tickets for the final, in line with CAF regulations.
With tensions easing after the tournament, organisers say they remain committed to transparency and fairness, while insisting that Senegal were treated on an equal footing with all participating teams during the Africa Cup of Nations.
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