Senegalese supporters case: Sonko mentions possible royal pardon or transfer | OneFootball

Sonko reacts to the imprisonment of Senegalese supporters in Morocco

Senegal / @x.com/Pressafrik/

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko has voiced his dissatisfaction following the sentences handed down against 18 Senegalese supporters, arrested after storming the pitch during the Africa Cup of Nations final. The match ended with Senegal defeating Morocco (1-0) after extra time.

The Moroccan judiciary sentenced the 18 supporters to prison terms ranging from three months to one year, along with fines between 1,000 and 5,000 dirhams. They were found guilty of violence against law enforcement, property damage, and causing material harm.

During a parliamentary Q&A session, Ousmane Sonko argued that this case goes beyond purely sporting matters and does not reflect the quality of bilateral relations between Senegal and Morocco.

The Senegalese head of government assured that his country had taken all necessary steps to secure the release of the supporters in question. He also indicated that Senegal was ready to activate any bilateral agreement allowing for the transfer of detainees between the two countries, should the situation require it.

Additionally, Sonko expressed hope that King Mohammed VI might grant a royal pardon to the incarcerated supporters.

To recap, the CAN final was marked by high tension after a penalty was awarded to Morocco and a Senegalese goal was disallowed following a VAR review. Some Senegalese supporters briefly attempted to invade the pitch during the penalty kick, which was ultimately missed by Moroccan player Brahim Díaz.