By Angu Lesley
Senegal full‑back Ismaïl Jakobs has suggested it was “no coincidence” that three of his team-mates fell ill around the time of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Morocco.
Speaking after Senegal’s dramatic 1‑0 victory in Rabat, Jakobs said:
A lot happened before the match. I think a lot will come out afterwards. It wasn’t just this [penalty] situation. Plenty happened before the match too. But you’ll find out soon.”
The remarks come after reports that Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr, Krépin Diatta, and Ousseynou Niang all suffered sudden illnesses during the build-up to the final. Sarr reportedly became unwell around half‑time, while the other two were affected during pre-match warm-ups. Some players required hospital attention.
The illnesses occurred amid a chaotic final, which saw a controversial VAR penalty decision awarded to Senegal, a temporary walk-off by the players in protest, and a late extra-time goal securing Senegal’s second AFCON title.
Jakobs stopped short of making direct allegations but implied the illnesses were unusual, prompting speculation in the media and among fans. The Senegalese Football Federation, CAF, and tournament organisers have not released details on the cause of the illnesses.
The final also sparked controversy beyond the illnesses. Morocco’s coach publicly criticised officiating decisions, while FIFA president Gianni Infantino condemned the chaotic scenes as damaging to the sport.
For now, attention remains on Senegal’s historic win, but Jakobs’ comments leave lingering questions over the unusual events that preceded one of Africa’s most dramatic finals.
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