Senegalese FA Member: 'Morocco-Senegal Ties Transcend Football, But Each Defends Its Country'

Bakary Cissé, a member of the Senegalese Football Federation and head of the communication committee, made "unusual" statements regarding the controversy that followed the Africa Cup of Nations final. He asserted that "the Senegalese national team is not guilty," despite leaving the pitch after a correct penalty was awarded to the Moroccan team in the final seconds of the match.

The official stated in an interview with Senegalese channel TFM: "Everything started as a result of a bad refereeing decision, but that remains normal as it is part of the sequence of events within any match. There are ties between Morocco and Senegal that go beyond football, however, at a certain moment, each side must defend the colors of its country."

He added: "Everyone saw that Senegal scored a valid goal. Hakimi did not play the ball; instead, he focused on Abdoulaye Seck because he knew Seck doesn't give away aerial balls easily. The referee's decisions, especially the offside call that led to the corner and then the penalty, caused natural frustration, even though the Senegalese players have remained humble, even in moments of victory, until now. There was no noise or provocation; their actions reflected humility and focus, as if they had lost the match, due to their intense concentration on their objective. I understand Pape Thiaw's position."

Amid announcements of potential sanctions against the Senegalese national team and its coach, Bakary Cissé affirmed: "Today, there is a lot of controversy and noise surrounding these events, but Senegal remains focused. We have competent officials who know the laws and regulations very well. For now, we will enjoy our victory, maintain our calm, and will not issue any comment or statement. We have capable leaders, and we will be prepared for everything."