The 18 Senegalese supporters detained in Rabat have taken a new step in their detention this Thursday.
Arrested on January 18 by the police in the Moroccan capital during the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final, which Senegal won against Morocco (1-0 after extra time), they had been in uncertainty for 24 days.
First court appearance
This Thursday, the 18 supporters finally appeared before the Rabat court of first instance, after a one-week postponement of the hearing. According to Wiwsport, several representatives from Senegalese associations traveled to show their support.
However, the defense lawyers were absent. They were finishing a strike initiated to protest what they consider an unfair trial. Their plea is now expected on February 19, the date set by the court.
Accusations of hooliganism
The supporters are suspected of participating in “hooliganism.” Incidents erupted at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium after a penalty was awarded to Morocco in stoppage time (90+4). Clashes reportedly broke out between some supporters and the stewards.
On their side, the relatives of the accused mention an act of self-defense. On the eve of the trial, their lawyer, Patrick Kabou, denounced obstacles to his mission. In a statement, he claimed he had no access to the case file, could not communicate with his clients, and was regularly prevented from entering the court. He also stated that the 18 supporters “still do not know what they are being accused of.”
