AFCON Final Row: Senegal Protest Training Venue, Ticket Restrictions

Senegal have petitioned the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over what they described as unfair treatment ahead of Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final against hosts Morocco in Rabat.

The Teranga Lions on Friday boycotted training at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, alleging that the facility compromises their tactical privacy. According to the team’s officials, the Moroccan side is camped directly opposite the venue, raising fears that Senegal’s sessions could be monitored or recorded.

Team representatives have consequently asked CAF to provide an alternative training ground to guarantee a level playing field before the crunch encounter.

Beyond the training dispute, Senegal also complained about limited access to match tickets. The delegation disclosed that they were allocated only two VVIP tickets for the final and were prevented from purchasing additional seats for officials and family members.

In a formal protest letter, the Senegalese Football Federation urged CAF and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) to intervene urgently to “protect the principles of fair play, equality and security” ahead of the title decider.

CAF is yet to issue an official response, but sources within the organising body said consultations were ongoing to address the concerns and avoid a diplomatic row on the eve of the continent’s biggest football showpiece.

The AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal is scheduled for Sunday night in Rabat, with millions of fans across Africa eagerly awaiting the showdown.