A Moroccan court has slammed prison terms of up to one year on 19 football supporters — 18 Senegalese and one French national — for violent disorder during the dramatic 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final.
The sentencing follows chaotic scenes at the climax of the continental showdown, where tempers boiled over after a late penalty was awarded to the host nation. Moments later, sections of the crowd stormed the pitch, hurled plastic chairs, and clashed with match stewards, forcing a temporary halt to proceedings.
Despite the turmoil, Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal held their nerve to secure a narrow 1–0 victory. But the post-penalty unrest left a heavy price tag — with authorities estimating more than $476,000 in property damage to the stadium.
According to court documents, the defendants were convicted on charges including violence and destruction of public property.
Eleven supporters were sentenced to one year in prison.
Four received six-month jail terms.
Another four were handed three-month sentences.
Defence lawyers swiftly condemned the rulings as excessive, arguing that the punishments were harsh given the circumstances. They confirmed plans to file appeals in a bid to overturn or reduce the sentences.
Security analysts say the verdict sends a strong signal ahead of future continental tournaments, reinforcing zero tolerance for hooliganism at Africa’s biggest football stage.
The fallout from the night of chaos now extends beyond the pitch — from a celebrated victory to courtroom consequences that will linger long after the final whistle.
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