The legal proceedings concerning the disturbances that occurred during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final began this Thursday in Morocco. Eighteen Senegalese supporters , prosecuted for acts of "hooliganism," appeared before the Rabat Court of First Instance.

A trial postponed to January 29th

Although the hearing opened this Thursday, the court quickly adjourned it until January 29, 2025. This delay is intended to allow the various parties (defense and prosecution) to strengthen their respective cases. The defendants remain in pretrial detention in the meantime.

A recap of the events: a high-tension final

The incidents broke out last Sunday during the final between Morocco and Senegal (won 1-0 by the Lions of Teranga).

1. Attempted pitch invasion: Shortly before the end of regulation time, dozens of supporters attempted to enter the pitch, causing an interruption of nearly 15 minutes.
2. Violence and projectiles: Law enforcement and stewards had to intervene to control the crowd, as projectiles, including chairs, were thrown towards the field.
3. Other arrests: In addition to the Senegalese nationals, a French citizen of Algerian origin is also being prosecuted and is in custody for similar offenses.

Conviction of an Algerian influencer

In a separate development, the Moroccan justice system handed down a firm verdict in another case related to the competition. An Algerian supporter and influencer was sentenced on Monday to three months in prison .

He was being prosecuted for "public indecency" after a video was released in early January. In this footage, filmed during the Algeria-DRC round of 16 match, he provocatively stated his intention to urinate in the stands of the Rabat stadium.