A pre-final press conference at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 was marred by tension after a question directed at Senegal’s coach, Bab Thiaw, ignited controversy. The incident occurred ahead of the highly anticipated final match, drawing criticism from Senegalese media representatives.
Reports from inside the press conference indicate that the question, posed by a Moroccan journalist, allegedly cast doubt on the Senegalese team’s participation and performance. Senegalese journalists present considered the implications to be unprofessional and detrimental to the spirit of sportsmanship expected before a major continental final.
Senegalese Media Express Outrage
The question prompted immediate reactions. Numerous Senegalese media members voiced their displeasure, suggesting that certain questions from the Moroccan press adopted a provocative tone. They felt the line of questioning aimed to draw the coach and his players into unnecessary disputes rather than focusing on the technical and organizational aspects of the final.
Senegal Coach Refuses to Engage
Coach Thiaw maintained composure, offering concise responses that emphasized respect for the opponent and a commitment to focusing solely on the match. He declined to be drawn into any discussions that could be interpreted as questioning or escalating media tensions.
Spotlight on Media Responsibility
This event underscores the importance of responsible sports journalism, particularly at major continental tournaments. Professional inquiry should serve to enrich sports discourse, not to incite discord between media delegations and participating teams. The incident serves as a reminder of the media’s role in fostering a positive and respectful environment surrounding sporting events.
