There were reports of attacks on Senegalese-owned shops and businesses in parts of Morocco following the country’s defeat to Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.
According to eyewitness accounts and videos circulating on social media, groups of angry youths allegedly targeted stores owned by Senegalese nationals shortly after the match ended. Some shops were reportedly vandalised, while goods were destroyed or looted in the aftermath of the loss.
The incidents are believed to have been triggered by heightened emotions following the controversial AFCON final, which ended in a 1–0 victory for Senegal after extra time. Tensions during the match, including disputed officiating decisions, had already sparked confrontations on and off the pitch.
Local authorities are yet to issue an official statement confirming the scale of the attacks or the number of businesses affected. However, security agencies were reportedly deployed to restore calm and prevent further violence in affected areas.
Community leaders and social commentators have condemned the attacks, calling for restraint and urging football fans not to resort to violence or xenophobic actions over sporting outcomes.
Meanwhile, Senegalese residents in Morocco have appealed for protection, stressing that football rivalries should not be allowed to endanger lives, livelihoods, or peaceful coexistence.
The development has sparked renewed calls for stronger measures to curb post-match violence and protect foreign nationals during major sporting events.