Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, appeared on Al Jazeera to discuss the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025), focusing on controversies involving Morocco and Senegal. The final, held on February 8, 2025, in Abidjan, saw Senegal defeat Morocco 2-0, but the match was preceded by several disputes.
Lekjaa addressed the controversy over the choice of the final venue. Initially scheduled for the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, the match was moved to the Stade Alassane Ouattara in Ebimpé due to renovation delays. Senegal's federation had protested the change, citing logistical concerns. Lekjaa stated that the decision was made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and that Morocco accepted it.
He also discussed the pre-match dispute over the referee appointment. Senegal objected to the initial referee, citing potential bias, leading CAF to appoint a different official. Lekjaa confirmed that Morocco respected CAF's final decision. The match itself was marked by a controversial penalty awarded to Senegal in the 58th minute, which Lekjaa declined to comment on, deferring to CAF's review.
Lekjaa emphasized that Morocco's focus remains on football development and that the controversies should not overshadow the tournament's success. He praised Senegal's performance and congratulated them on their victory. The interview, broadcast on June 15, 2026, aimed to clarify Morocco's position on the events.
