The Senegalese national team has expressed concerns over security, ticketing, accommodation, and training arrangements ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
The Teranga Lions are set to play in the final following their semi-final victory over Egypt on Wednesday. In a statement released on Saturday, the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) said it was compelled to speak out “for the sake of transparency and the defence of the interests of the Senegal national team,” citing several issues observed during preparations for the final in Morocco.
The FSF highlighted lapses in security upon the team’s arrival in Morocco. “The FSF deplores the clear absence of adequate safety devices when the Senegalese delegation arrived at the Rabat railway station,” the statement read. The federation warned that the situation exposed players and officials “to risks incompatible with the standards of a competition of this magnitude and the standing of a continental final.”
The federation also flagged ticketing as a major source of frustration. According to the FSF, only two VVIP tickets were allocated to the team, unlike the semi-finals where greater access was provided. While the federation confirmed it had purchased the maximum number of tickets allowed by CAF — 300 Category 1, 850 Category 2, and 1,700 Category 3 — it noted that “these quantities, although fully acquired, remain insufficient in relation to demand.”,
Senegal rejected the proposed training venue at the Mohammed VI Complex, citing fairness concerns. “The facility serves as the base camp of the opposing team, which raises a problem of sporting fairness,” the FSF stated. At the time of the announcement, the team had not received official notification of its designated training site.
The FSF also highlighted difficulties with accommodation, noting that formal intervention was necessary before acceptable arrangements could be made. “A 5-star hotel was finally awarded to the Lions, ensuring the required recovery conditions,” the statement said.
The Senegalese federation has urged CAF and the local organising committee to “take all immediate corrective measures to ensure respect for the principles of Fair Play, equal treatment, and safety — essential to the success of this African football festival.”
