Senegal Football Federation (FSF) President Abdoulaye Fall unleashed sharp criticism against Morocco’s influence over African football governance following the Lions of Teranga’s 1-0 AFCON 2025 final victory. Speaking at a January 24, 2026, ceremony in Bambey, Fall accused host Morocco of controlling the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with vice-president Fouzi Lekjaa pulling strings.
CAF Control and Final Chaos
Fall declared, “Morocco controls the CAF, let’s be clear—they decide everything.” He highlighted late referee announcements that blocked challenges and a disallowed Senegal goal via VAR, sparking player walk-offs and pitch invasions. Despite Morocco’s late penalty (missed by Brahim Diaz), Senegal triumphed in extra time amid 15-minute delays.
Logistical Sabotage Allegations
Fall rejected training at Morocco’s elite Mohammed VI Complex, fearing spying on tactics. Rabat hotel woes—noisy central location, absent security—forced switches. “No country opposed Morocco like Senegal,” he stressed, contrasting earlier FSF pleas for “fair play” with post-win candour on accommodations and fan tickets.
Power Struggle Implications
Fall’s outburst reignites debates on Morocco’s AFCON hosting clout and CAF sway, despite personal ties with Lekjaa. As Senegal celebrates, calls grow for transparent governance to curb host advantages. This 2026 rift tests African football unity ahead of qualifiers.
