Three Senegal supporters freed in Morocco after AFCON final unrest
Three Senegalese football fans were released from prison in Morocco on Saturday after serving three-month sentences over violence that broke out during the Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat.
Fifteen other Senegalese supporters remain behind bars in connection with the same incidents, serving sentences ranging from six months to one year. The group had been detained since the January 18 final and was convicted on hooliganism-related charges, including violence against security forces, invading the pitch and throwing objects, the AFP reports.
A French man of Algerian origin was also released on Saturday after completing a three-month sentence for throwing a water bottle during the match.
The unrest erupted after the referee awarded Morocco a late penalty shortly after ruling out a Senegal goal. Senegal’s players briefly walked off the pitch in protest, while some supporters attempted to enter the field and hurled objects onto the grass.
The match later resumed, with Moroccan forward Brahim Díaz missing the penalty. Senegal eventually won 1-0 in extra time through a goal by Pape Gueye.
The controversy has continued beyond the final. On March 17, the Confederation of African Football awarded the title to Morocco, prompting Senegal to appeal the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
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