The dispute between the football federations of Senegal and Morocco has taken a new turn before the disciplinary bodies of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Following the semi-final of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations, a new complaint has been filed by the Moroccan side, reigniting a sensitive process between the two countries in the context of continental youth competitions.
According to available information, Moroccan authorities have approached the relevant CAF bodies to contest several aspects related to the match between the Lionceaux de la Téranga and their Moroccan counterparts. This move is part of a series of recent disputes involving both federations, whose relationship has soured over the last competitions held on the African continent.
In reviewing this new complaint, CAF has opened a disciplinary procedure to analyze the grievances raised. At this stage, the specific details of the complaint have not been made public by the governing body of African football, which is continuing its investigations in line with its internal regulations. The goal is to determine if any irregularities or breaches of competition rules occurred during or after the match in question.
As part of this procedure, several Senegalese officials have been summoned to be heard by the CAF disciplinary body. Among them are Yaya Baldé and Abdoulaye Sow, who participated in a video conference hearing. This step allows Senegalese leaders to present their version of events and respond to the accusations or challenges made by the opposing side.
This hearing takes place in an atmosphere already marked by a buildup of sporting and administrative tensions between the two federations. In recent months, several appeals and complaints have been filed following various competitions, fueling a rivalry that now goes beyond just the sporting realm. African bodies are regularly called upon to mediate disputes between the two countries, especially in youth categories.
From CAF’s side, the procedure is proceeding as usual, with the analysis of match reports, collected testimonies, and evidence provided by both parties. A decision is expected at the end of the investigation, but no specific timeline has been communicated yet.
While awaiting the conclusions of the inquiry, this new case extends a series of ongoing tensions between Senegal and Morocco in African football. It once again highlights the disciplinary and organizational issues surrounding youth competitions, as well as the growing importance of regulatory bodies in managing sports disputes on the continent.
