When Senegal lifted the Africa Cup of Nations trophy in Morocco, it was meant to be a night of pure triumph. But days after the historic victory, the echoes of celebration have been replaced by anxiety and uncertainty for families back home.
Senegal’s Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, is set to begin an official visit to Morocco on Monday, a trip that now carries both diplomatic weight and human urgency following the detention of Senegalese football supporters in the aftermath of the AFCON final.
Eighteen Senegalese fans remain in pre-trial detention in Morocco, facing charges of hooliganism linked to incidents that erupted during the January 18 final, which Senegal won 1–0 against the host nation. Their trial, which opened at a Rabat court on Thursday, has been adjourned to January 29.
Beyond politics and protocol, Sonko’s visit unfolds against a backdrop of anxious families, bruised national pride, and a rivalry that has spilled beyond the pitch. Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has expressed regret over the incidents, while Sonko has called for calm and restraint as tensions continue to simmer, particularly on social media where rival fans exchange heated words.
Officially, the visit is part of a scheduled joint commission meeting between Senegal and Morocco, with discussions expected to cover cooperation in tourism, energy, infrastructure and transport. A Moroccan–Senegalese economic forum is also planned, underscoring the long-standing ties between the two nations, strengthened by shared religious and cultural bonds.
Yet, as diplomats meet and agreements are signed, the fate of 18 young supporters remains a poignant reminder that football’s greatest moments can sometimes cast the longest shadows.
