Hundreds of Senegalese fans marched through the streets of Dakar on February 28, 2026, protesting the imprisonment of 18 supporters jailed in Morocco following disruptions during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026 final.

The protesters carried placards, waved Senegalese flags, and chanted slogans like “Free the hostages” to show solidarity with the jailed fans.

According to AFP, tensions rose during the AFCON final after Morocco was awarded a controversial late penalty, leading to physical scuffles between Senegalese supporters and stadium security.

A Rabat court sentenced nine of the fans to one year in prison and fined them €460 ($544), while the remaining supporters received prison terms ranging from three months to one year.

Authorities charged them with hooliganism after the pitch invasion attempts.

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko criticized the ruling, stating it “does not honour” relations between Senegal and Morocco.

Sonko assured the National Assembly that Senegal is taking all measures to secure the release of its nationals.

The demonstration in Dakar highlights growing concerns over fan safety and international sports justice.

Senegal celebrated its AFCON 2026 victory with a 1-0 win in extra time, following Brahim Diaz’s missed penalty for Morocco.

The incident has sparked debates over the treatment of foreign fans and crowd control measures at major sporting events.

The protest drew wide attention on social media and local news outlets, emphasizing solidarity with imprisoned citizens and calling for diplomatic pressure on Moroccan authorities.

Observers note that this marks one of the largest football-related demonstrations in Dakar in recent years.