Sports 28 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Issa Diop's Morocco Debut Strengthens PR Edge Over Senegal Amid AFCON Dispute
Fulham defender Issa Diop made his international debut for Morocco in a 1-1 draw against Ecuador, marking a significant public relations victory for the North Africans in their ongoing rivalry with Senegal. This comes as Senegal contests the stripping of their Africa Cup of Nations title awarded to Morocco. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/diop-debut-for-morocco-a-boost-in-pr-battle-with-senegal-5406366
Issa Diop, the 29-year-old Fulham defender born in France to a Senegalese father and Moroccan mother, has switched allegiance to Morocco. Previously rejecting advances from both Senegal and Morocco while hoping for a France call-up, Diop received FIFA approval on Thursday to change his nationality.
He was immediately included in Morocco’s starting lineup for Friday’s 1-1 friendly draw against Ecuador in Madrid. Post-match, Diop expressed satisfaction, stating he was happy to join a talented squad and felt welcomed by the team under new coach Mohamed Ouahbi and federation president Faouzi Lekjaa.
This debut holds added irony and PR value amid the controversy over the Africa Cup of Nations. Senegal lost their title after forfeiting the January 18 final in Rabat by walking off in protest over a penalty to Morocco. Morocco was declared winners, a decision Senegal is appealing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Senegal, who rely heavily on French-born diaspora players, defiantly held a press conference with a ‘Champions of Africa’ banner and plan to display the trophy before their friendly against Peru at the Stade de France.
Morocco has a history of recruiting dual-eligible talents but this marks their first success in a direct tug-of-war with another African nation like Senegal.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)