Moroccan police arrest 18 Senegal fans and one Algerian over acts of ‘hooliganism’ after violent clashes during chaotic AFCON final

Moroccan police arrested 18 Senegal fans and one Algerian during the chaotic Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on Sunday night.

According to AFP via RMC Sport, the arrests were made so the Senegal supporters could be questioned about acts of hooliganism inside the stadium, while the Algerian is suspected of inciting hooliganism.

It comes after several fans attempted to enter the field of play in the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in a period that saw Senegal manager Pape Thiaw take his players off the field in stoppage time because of a refereeing decision.

Thiaw is set to face a lengthy ban after telling his players to walk off in protest despite apologising for his actions, and the Moroccan football federation have announced its intent to launch legal action over the incident.’

Senegal secured the title with a 1-0 victory over hosts Morocco, thanks to Pape Gueye’s extra-time strike.

 
However, the triumph was overshadowed by a disputed late penalty decision, which prompted Senegal players to abandon the pitch in protest, leading to a temporary halt and angry scenes around match officials.
 
After a delay of over 15 minutes, the Senegal players returned to the pitch, and Morocco’s Brahim Diaz missed the subsequent penalty as his ‘Panenka’ attempt was easily saved by ex-Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to take the game to extra time.