Morocco's trial run as a 2030 World Cup co-host faced significant challenges during the Africa Cup of Nations final. The match ended in chaos with fan and steward altercations on the field.
Senegal's team
walked off after a potential winning goal was disallowed in stoppage time, followed by Morocco being awarded a penalty.
Senegalese fans expressed their anger by breaching barricades, reaching photographers' areas, and throwing chairs onto the field. Stewards struggled to control the situation until police intervened. Meanwhile, players from both teams clashed on the sidelines, with Morocco's coach Walid Regragui involved, possibly trying to calm the situation.
Security Concerns and Refereeing
Security issues were evident as fans accessed the field during the final. Additionally, Senegal's reserve goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf faced challenges with Moroccan ball boys attempting to take starting keeper Édouard Mendy's towels. Nigeria's goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also had his towel taken before a penalty shootout against Morocco in the semifinal.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino criticised the "unacceptable scenes" and condemned Senegal's players for leaving the field after referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty. Despite resuming play, tensions remained high, culminating in Senegal's Pape Gueye scoring in extra time to secure a 1-0 victory.
Infrastructure and Future Prospects
Morocco is set to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal and hopes to host the final at the under-construction Hassan II Stadium. This venue is expected to be the largest soccer arena globally, with a capacity of 115,000 upon its completion in 2028.
The country's infrastructure has been praised, with excellent rail links connecting Rabat to stadium venues in Tangier, Marrakech, Casablanca, Agadir, and Fez. The national railway ONCF offers a user-friendly ticket app available in English, French, and Arabic for foreign fans.
Mixed Reactions and Future Events
Despite infrastructure advancements, Morocco's image as a host was tarnished by incidents during the tournament. The Senegalese Football Federation criticised local authorities for their treatment upon arrival in Rabat for the final match. Additionally, Moroccan fans' loud whistles disrupted opposing teams at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw's postgame conference was cancelled after he was booed by presumably Moroccan journalists. Arguments erupted among accredited media members. Despite these issues, Morocco continues its efforts to become a soccer superpower and will host the Women's Africa Cup for the third consecutive time starting March 17.
Morocco has invested significantly in infrastructure and facilities to enhance its status in international soccer. The kingdom remains committed to improving its hosting capabilities ahead of future events.
With inputs from PTI
