Paris braces for AFCON final as real danger prompts swift security moves

Security Measures Ahead of AFCON Final

Paris police imposed a strict ban on gatherings of supporters of Morocco and Senegal in the Champs-Élysées area and surrounding zones, timed to the Africa Cup of Nations final set for Sunday evening.

The police directorate announced, in a statement issued 24 hours before the match, on Saturday evening, that gatherings or celebrations linked to the final would be prohibited within a zone extending from the Louvre to Porte Maillot Gate, as part of proactive steps to curb potential disturbances.

The decision text said that \"gatherings by people who identify themselves as supporters of the participating nations in AFCON 2025 or who act on that basis are forbidden inside this perimeter,\" noting the area is a sensitive tourist site with high footfall.

Authorities justified the move by citing a \"real danger\" of incidents before or after matches, especially in the knockout rounds, and stated that fireworks and flammable materials would also be banned.

The measures are to take effect Sunday at 6 p.m. and will remain in place until Monday at 2 a.m.

Context and Expectations

Police said the decisions followed earlier experiences where AFCON celebrations turned into riots, property damage and security breaches, prompting police interventions and arrests.

The final between Morocco and Senegal is expected to draw wide public attention, while French authorities aim to ensure the event passes peacefully in the capital.

Punchline: If fans can dodge a security cordon, they should consider a career in professional improvisation.

Punchline: And if the final goes into extra time, at least the snacks will have a dramatic pause to savor.