Senegal FA President Abdoulaye Fall recently sparked a massive controversy by making serious allegations against CAF and Morocco regarding the AFCON 2025 final.
Although Senegal secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Morocco to claim the title, the post-match tension has shifted from the pitch to the boardroom.
Abdoulaye Fall, head of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), has launched a fierce critique of both the host nation and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), claiming there was an organized effort to sabotage his squad.
The Accusations of Hostility
During a ceremony on Saturday, Fall described a tournament atmosphere defined by unprecedented hostility. He alleged that the “Lions of Teranga” faced various forms of interference, from logistical hurdles to potential espionage, leading up to the final in Rabat.
“Let’s Tell the Truth”
In a video shared by Seneweb, Fall spoke candidly in Wolof about the power imbalances he perceives within the sport. He specifically targeted the influence of Fouzi Lekjaa, who serves as both the Moroccan Football Federation President and CAF Vice-President. Fall boldly claimed that Morocco effectively “controls” CAF, arguing that the hosts used their administrative weight to tip the scales in their favor and noting that Senegal was the only nation brave enough to challenge this dominance.
Espionage Allegations
The most startling claim involved an alleged attempt by organizers to monitor the Senegalese team. Fall stated that upon their arrival in Rabat, the team was pressured to train at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. While he admitted the facility is world-class, he labeled the invitation a “trap,” asserting that using the complex would have allowed the hosts to spy on their tactical sessions and team secrets.
Logistical Sabotage and Boycott Threats
Fall further detailed a chaotic arrival in the capital, claiming the team was denied security escorts and placed in a noisy, inaccessible hotel unsuitable for professional athletes. According to Fall, the situation became so dire that he threatened to withdraw from the tournament entirely. This ultimatum eventually forced organizers to provide better security, a more appropriate hotel, and a different training site.
Refereeing and VAR Controversy
The FSF President also criticized the officiating process, particularly the late appointment of Congolese referee Jean-Jacques Ndala. Fall alleged that CAF intentionally withheld the referee’s identity until the night before the match to prevent Senegal from filing a formal protest – a move CAF reportedly justified as a way to “protect the official from pressure.”
Despite these obstacles, including a contested penalty for Morocco and a disallowed Senegalese goal that led to a brief player walk-off, Senegal eventually triumphed with a 1-0 victory in extra time.
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