Moroccan Politician's 'Voodoo' Accusation Adds Fuel to AFCON 2025 Final Controversy
A prominent Moroccan politician has sparked widespread outrage by accusing the Senegal national football team of employing "voodoo" magic during their controversial victory in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. The explosive claim comes after Senegal's dramatic 1-0 win over host nation Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 18, 2026.
Chaotic Final Moments and Contentious Penalty Decision
The Teranga Lions secured their second AFCON title in a match that descended into chaos during the closing minutes. After Senegalese winger Ismaila Sarr had a goal disallowed for a foul in the build-up, Moroccan hopes were raised when referee Jean-Jacques Ndala awarded a penalty in the 97th minute following El Hadji Malick Diouf's challenge on Real Madrid star Brahim Díaz.
What followed was unprecedented in African football history. Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw instructed his players to walk off the pitch in protest, while Moroccan fans attempted to invade the playing area before security personnel intervened. The match was delayed for over twenty minutes as most of Senegal's starting lineup headed toward the dressing room, with only veteran forward Sadio Mané remaining on the field.
Penalty Drama and Moroccan Politician's Explosive Claim
When play finally resumed in the 114th minute, Brahim Díaz attempted an audacious Panenka penalty that was saved by former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The match proceeded to extra time, where Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye scored the decisive goal to secure Senegal's victory.
In the aftermath, a Moroccan parliamentarian made the sensational accusation that Senegal had resorted to traditional magic practices during their time in the dressing room before Díaz took the crucial penalty. The politician reportedly called for the arrest of referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, arguing that the official should have ended the match following Senegal's temporary walk-off.
Social Media Reactions and Broader Implications
The politician's voodoo claim has generated heated reactions across social media platforms:
- @Lord_Of_Warri commented: "These people think they rule Africa because they are paying CAF?"
- @fouz28dz wrote: "The ref is being accused of treason. He got his payment but Morocco didn't get the cup. That's called straight-up robbery."
- @BabacarCis48213 added: "This Moroccan MP is right, Morocco didn't get the service it paid for. The referee should refund the money or be taken to court."
Meanwhile, Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has since issued an unreserved apology to the Confederation of African Football for his conduct during the final, explaining that his emotions overcame him due to what he described as poor officiating in the closing moments.
The controversy highlights the intense passions surrounding African football and raises questions about how such accusations might affect diplomatic relations between the two nations. As African football continues to grow in global stature, incidents like these underscore the need for improved conflict resolution mechanisms within continental sporting bodies.
