Official Statement Dashes Death Rumors at Morocco's AFCON Final
20 January 2026
Official Denial and Verification
During the AFCON final held at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, social media posts claimed a death occurred due to a violent incident involving a person tasked with guarding the venue. The General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) in Morocco responded decisively to these rumors.
The statement affirmed that no death was recorded among security personnel or ball attendants, and that no investigations into a supposed corpse were opened in connection with the final's events.
Authorities said these details were carefully verified with relevant health institutions, effectively refuting the claims of a death linked to the match.
Next Steps and Context
In a firm tone, the DGSN noted that the reports are false and misleading, adding that they informed the competent judicial authorities and sought their guidance to open investigations to identify those responsible for spreading and disseminating the posts.
The aim of these investigations is to determine accountability and to apply any necessary legal penalties to anyone found involved in spreading false news that harms public order and the image of national sports events.
The final between Morocco and Senegal did see some fan disturbances and attempts to breach the stadium, which were stopped by Moroccan security forces.
Punchline 1: If rumors were bullets, security would need new armor, because this report just dodged every shot.
Punchline 2: In football as in life, the only thing to shoot down is misinformation—preferably with a calm whistle and a confident grin.