Senegalese Football Federation President Criticizes CAF and Morocco's Influence

Abdoulaye Fall, the president of the Senegalese Football Federation (FSF), has publicly criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) regarding their influence over the organization of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. During a press conference, Fall described a series of logistical challenges faced by the Senegalese delegation upon their arrival in Morocco, which he claims were designed to destabilize the team. He highlighted issues such as last-minute accommodation changes and the imposition of training facilities, specifically the Mohammed VI Center, which he deemed unsuitable due to concerns over confidentiality.

AFCON 2025: Abdoulaye Fall breaks the silence denouncing the "methods" of CAF

Fall also raised significant concerns regarding the officiating of the final match, particularly criticizing the late announcement of the referee, Jean-Jacques Ndala, which he argued undermined the Senegalese team's ability to contest the decision. He expressed dissatisfaction with the ticket allocation for the final, stating that Senegal received only three official tickets, a situation he deemed unacceptable for a finalist team.

AFCON 2025: Abdoulaye Fall breaks the silence denouncing the "methods" of CAF

Fall asserted that Morocco exerts considerable control over CAF, claiming that many African federations are hesitant to oppose its influence. He stated, "Morocco controls the CAF, let's face it. They control everything and decide everything," emphasizing that Senegal is one of the few nations willing to challenge this dominance. He characterized the relationship between Morocco and CAF as one where the host country has undue sway over decisions affecting the tournament.

In his remarks, Fall acknowledged the resilience of the Senegalese team and its coach, Pape Thiaw, during the tournament. He noted that despite the adversities faced, the team's victory was not only a sporting achievement but also an administrative triumph. Fall's comments reflect a broader concern about the power dynamics within African football, particularly in light of Morocco's strategic position as CAF's vice-president.

AFCON 2025: Abdoulaye Fall breaks the silence denouncing the "methods" of CAF

While Fall's statements highlight significant grievances, they also risk straining relations between Senegal, Morocco, and CAF. His allegations suggest a systemic issue within African football governance, where the balance of power may favor certain nations over others. Critics may argue that such claims could exacerbate tensions and lead to further complications in future tournaments.

• "A psychological war upon arrival in Rabat." — Abdoulaye Fall, President of the FSF

AFCON 2025: Abdoulaye Fall breaks the silence denouncing the "methods" of CAF

• "Do you find it normal that everything returns to Morocco?" — Abdoulaye Fall

AFCON 2025: Abdoulaye Fall breaks the silence denouncing the "methods" of CAF

• "Morocco controls the CAF, let's face it. They control everything and decide everything." — Abdoulaye Fall

• "We were only informed the day before the final, at 10 p.m., whereas the regulations stipulate a period allowing for a possible challenge." — Abdoulaye Fall

As the football community awaits potential sanctions from CAF following the incidents surrounding the final, the implications of Fall's statements may have lasting effects on the relationships between the involved parties.

AFCON 2025: Abdoulaye Fall breaks the silence denouncing the "methods" of CAF