Senegal Legend Speaks Out: Accusing Morocco of Buying Referees Is a Dangerous Touch of Hypocrisy
25 January 2026
Former Senegalese star Hajj Diouf warned that accusing Morocco of buying referees is a dangerous, unfounded line of thinking after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, and that such claims harm the integrity of African football.
In a Le Monde op-ed, he commented on the atmosphere surrounding the final, which Senegal won 1-0 over Morocco, describing the match as chaotic due to numerous incidents inside and outside the stadium.
He said what stood out was not only what happened on the pitch, but what followed the final whistle, with exaggerated rhetoric and reactions spreading on social media and fuelling an unnecessary clash between two close-knit peoples.
Morocco and the Referees
Diouf added: 'I speak with seriousness and responsibility: accusing Morocco of buying referees is a dangerous slide that is completely unfair,' arguing that such hints without evidence harm the reputation of a country that has proven its seriousness and professionalism.
The former Liverpool forward stressed that frustration is natural in football, but it cannot justify constant doubt or spreading accusations; 'Football is decided on the pitch, not by rumors'.
His comments came as official calls for calm circulated, with the Senegalese prime minister, Ousmane Sonko, urging de-escalation after a tense match.
Calm, Respect, and Africa’s Integrity
Diouf also praised Morocco's organization of the tournament, saying the host nation delivered a remarkable edition of AFCON in terms of infrastructure, hospitality, security and logistics, proving Africa’s ability to stage major events to the highest international standards.
Punchline: If integrity in football cost a bribe, we’d all own stadiums by now. Punchline: And remember, the only thing truly bought should be a better sense of humor in the tunnel before kickoff.
