WAFCON final: Nigerians demand CAF action over laser attacks on Super Falcons by Moroccan supporters

Serious concerns have emerged over the repeated use of laser lights during Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions, following fresh incidents during the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final between Nigeria and hosts Morocco.

During the final match at Stade Olympique de Rabat, Nigeria’s Super Falcons secured a 3-2 victory over Morocco to claim their 10th WAFCON title. However, the game was marred by unsportsmanlike conduct from Moroccan fans who used laser pointers to target Nigerian players, particularly during high-pressure moments such as penalties, free kicks, and throw-ins.

Players including Esther Okoronkwo and Michelle Alozie were visibly affected, with lasers aimed directly at their faces. Head coach Justin Madugu confirmed that he, too, was targeted during the match.

“In fact, the lasers weren’t applied on the players alone—even myself,” Madugu said in a post-match interview. “I don’t think it is proper that this type of situation should continue.”

Fan Reactions and Calls for Action

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from football fans across social media, many condemning CAF’s inaction and calling for stricter enforcement. Some even suggested retaliatory measures, while others demanded urgent reform to protect players and ensure fair play.

This is not the first time such incidents have occurred in African football. During the 2022 World Cup playoff between Senegal and Egypt, Egyptian players were repeatedly targeted with lasers during the penalty shootout. Mohamed Salah notably missed his penalty while under the blinding green lights.

Similar incidents have been recorded in CAF club competitions. In April 2023, Wydad AC fans used laser pointers to distract Simba SC goalkeeper Ally Salim Juma during a CAF Champions League quarter-final. Wydad advanced after a 4-3 penalty win.

That same month, CAF’s Disciplinary Board charged Moroccan club AS FAR and Algerian side MC Alger over their failure to control fan behavior, including the use of laser pointers, during respective Champions League matches.

FIFA and CAF Regulations on Laser Use

According to FIFA’s Stadium Safety and Security Regulations, laser pointers are banned at stadiums as they can distract players and match officials. Article 16 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code holds teams accountable for the actions of their fans, with possible sanctions including fines, match forfeiture, or stadium bans.

Despite these rules, enforcement by CAF has been widely criticized as weak, particularly in incidents involving North African teams.

Experts Warn of Eye Damage, Urge Tougher Penalties

Broadcast journalist Saheed Afolabi of Clear TV warned that repeated exposure to laser lights can lead to vision problems and even permanent eye damage.

“CAF needs to go beyond fines and stadium bans. Countries whose fans violate these rules should face tournament suspensions or be stripped of hosting rights,” Afolabi said. “If CAF continues to ignore this issue—especially with Morocco hosting successive WAFCON tournaments—the practice will become normalized.”

He added that CAF must pressure local authorities to identify, prosecute, and jail perpetrators to serve as a deterrent, especially ahead of the 2025 AFCON.

James Agberebi of Complete Sports echoed these concerns, stressing the dangers of laser use, even in short bursts.

“Even brief exposure can cause temporary visual disturbances like afterimages and blurred vision,” Agberebi said. He urged CAF to issue a strong warning to Morocco’s football authorities and impose financial or stadium sanctions for repeated infractions.

Conclusion

As African football gains global attention, analysts and stakeholders insist that CAF must take decisive action to uphold the integrity and safety of the sport. With major tournaments like the 2025 AFCON on the horizon, the football body faces growing pressure to crack down on the illegal use of laser lights and ensure a level playing field for all teams.