Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has voiced strong support for 18 Senegalese supporters detained in Morocco, as their appeal trial, which is linked to incidents surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations final, remains a key focus for the West African nation.
The group, who were arrested following events tied to the final between Senegal and Morocco, had initially been handed prison sentences ranging from three months to one year for “hooliganism.”
Their appeal hearing began on 16 March but has been postponed until 30 March.
As the legal process continues, Thiaw has publicly expressed solidarity with the supporters, describing their situation as a matter of deep concern.
“Since they’ve been there, I pray for them every time. We are with them in spirit, we will never abandon them, we will fight to reunite them with their families.
“They came to contribute, and unfortunately, this is how it turned out. Let’s hope they are reunited with their families as soon as possible. We send them our best wishes; we are behind them, and we will do everything we can.”
The coach’s comments came shortly after Senegal’s 2-0 victory over Peru in a friendly match played at the Stade de France on Saturday.
While the result provided a moment of celebration, attention has remained divided due to the ongoing situation involving the detained fans.
Thiaw also took time to praise the Senegalese diaspora, who turned out in large numbers to support the team in France, creating a vibrant atmosphere at the stadium.
“We must congratulate the players on this victory in front of this wonderful crowd. Thank you to everyone who was there. It’s not easy to fill the Stade de France when you’re not playing against France,” the Senegal coach emphasized.
“Well done to the Senegalese fans, who truly showed their love for their team. They sacrificed themselves for their team.
“We experienced it very positively seeing the entire Senegalese diaspora present in this beautiful, legendary stadium. A 2-0 victory against a good Peruvian team—I think we can only be happy. Even if there are things to improve.”
The arrests stem from incidents linked to the Africa Cup of Nations final, a match Senegal originally won after extra time.
However, on 17 March, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded the victory to Morocco by default following protests by Senegalese players, who had left the field before the end of regulation time.
