Moroccan Court Sentences Soccer Fans After CAN Final Chaos
A Moroccan court has sentenced 19 soccer fans to prison terms ranging from three months to one year following the chaotic scenes that marred the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) final between Morocco and Senegal. The sentences, handed down on Thursday, also include fines ranging from approximately $90 to $460 USD.
Charges and Sentencing Details
The 18 Senegalese and one French national were found guilty of hooliganism, violence against law enforcement, damaging sporting facilities, invading the pitch and throwing projectiles. Nine fans received one-year sentences and fines of 5,000 Moroccan dirhams. Six were sentenced to six months in prison and fines of 2,000 dirhams, while the remaining three received three-month sentences and fines of 1,000 dirhams. A French national of Algerian origin received a three-month sentence and a 1,000 dirham fine for throwing a water bottle.
Defense Claims and Appeals
Defense attorneys have strongly criticized the severity of the sentences, arguing that their clients were being used as “scapegoats.” They plan to appeal the decision, claiming insufficient evidence to support the convictions. The defense highlighted that there was no “flagrant evidence of guilt” and emphasized the long-standing fraternal relationship between the Moroccan and Senegalese people.
Damage Estimates and Prosecution Arguments
The prosecution argued that the fans deliberately disrupted the match and committed violence broadcast live on television. They estimated the total damage to the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex at over 370,000 euros. Evidence presented by the prosecution included footage from stadium security cameras and medical certificates from injured security personnel and stadium staff.
Broader Implications and CAF Sanctions
This case highlights the ongoing challenges of soccer-related hooliganism in Morocco, though It’s unusual in that it involved only foreign nationals. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also imposed sanctions, including fines totaling several hundred thousand euros, on both the Moroccan and Senegalese football federations for unsportsmanlike conduct and violations of fair play principles. The prosecution argued that these CAF sanctions reinforce the guilt of the accused.
The Incident That Sparked the Controversy
The unrest erupted in the final minutes of the match after a penalty was awarded to Morocco. This decision followed a disallowed goal for Senegal, sparking outrage among Senegalese supporters, some of whom attempted to storm the pitch and threw projectiles.
FAQ
- What were the charges against the fans? They were charged with hooliganism, violence against law enforcement, damaging sporting facilities, invading the pitch, and throwing projectiles.
- What is the range of sentences handed down? Sentences ranged from three months to one year in prison, with fines ranging from approximately $90 to $460 USD.
- Are the sentences being appealed? Yes, the defense attorneys plan to appeal the decision.
- What was the estimated cost of the damage? The prosecution estimated the damage at over 370,000 euros.
Pro Tip: Understanding the legal ramifications of fan behavior at international sporting events is crucial for both organizers and attendees. Increased security measures and clear guidelines for conduct are essential to prevent future incidents.
Did you know? The incident occurred during the first day of Ramadan in Morocco, adding another layer of complexity to the already tense situation.
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