Senegal's national beach soccer team coach, Pape Thiaw, has issued a strong message of support for 18 Senegalese fans who were reportedly detained by Moroccan authorities. The incident occurred as the supporters were traveling to support their team in a decisive 2026 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup qualifier against Morocco.
According to reports from Senegalese media, the fans were arrested upon their arrival in Morocco. Specific charges or reasons for their detention have not been officially detailed in available reports. The match, a crucial second-leg qualifier, was scheduled for March 29, 2026, in Salé, Morocco.
In a video message circulated online, Coach Pape Thiaw addressed the situation, stating in Wolof, "We will never abandon them" ("Nu leen di bëgg, nu leen di bëgg, bu nu leen di bëgg"). He emphasized the team's solidarity with the detained supporters, linking their spirit to the team's motivation on the field.
The first leg of the qualifier, played in Dakar on March 22, 2026, ended in a 4-4 draw. The outcome of the second leg will determine which nation secures a spot at the 2026 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Seychelles. The incident has cast a shadow over the high-stakes sporting event, drawing attention from fans and officials in Senegal.
