The semi-final of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN U17) between Senegal and Morocco has sparked controversy after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco, allowing them to equalize in the final seconds of the match. The decision by the referee has been widely debated, with many questioning the validity of the call.
According to match reports, the penalty was given after a contentious incident in the penalty area. Video replays show the contact was minimal, leading to accusations that the referee made a game-changing error. The match ended in a draw, forcing extra time and eventually a penalty shootout, which Morocco won to advance to the final.
Social media and sports analysts have criticized the officiating, with some calling for VAR to be implemented in future youth tournaments. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not yet commented on the incident. The result means Morocco will face either Mali or Burkina Faso in the final, while Senegal is eliminated.
