FIFA, the organization responsible for overseeing international soccer competitions, is reportedly making a decision regarding the participation of a particular national team in this year’s World Cup.
In light of the current controversies in the United States involving ICE, it’s surprising that the nation will co-host one of the world’s largest sporting events alongside Mexico and Canada this summer.
As preparations for the soccer extravaganza progress, supporters from various countries are concerned about being barred from entering the US due to President Donald Trump’s decision to halt migration visa applications for several nations.
Fans from countries such as Morocco, Haiti, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Egypt, Iran, Cape Verde, Uruguay, Senegal, Algeria, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Colombia, Ghana, Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia, Iraq, and Brazil may face entry restrictions to the US this June.
Reacting to the situation, a fan from Senegal expressed to the Associated Press: “I don’t know why the American president would want teams from certain countries not to take part. If that’s the case, they shouldn’t agree to host the World Cup.
“It’s up to the United States to provide the conditions, the means, and the resources to allow the qualified countries so everyone can go and support their team.”
There were rumors that Senegal might face a World Cup ban due to incidents at the AFCON final.
Earlier this month, Senegal emerged victorious against Morocco with a 1-0 score in a match filled with controversies, including a decision by Senegal’s manager, Pape Thiaw, to have his team leave the field following a disputed penalty awarded to Morocco.
Senegal returned to the pitch and triumphed after the Moroccan penalty was saved.
Though Senegal ultimately secured victory and lifted the cup, the Confederation of African Football (CAF)’s regulations state a nation ‘shall be considered loser if they ‘refuse to play or leave the ground before the regular end of the match without the authorisation of the referee’.
According to French publication L’Equipe, CAF’s disciplinary committee is considering what penalties might be imposed on Senegal.
For the forthcoming World Cup, the report indicates that Senegal’s participation is not in jeopardy.
Senegal is slated to face France and Norway, with one of Iraq, Suriname, or Bolivia joining them in Group I.
This will mark Senegal’s fourth World Cup appearance, having debuted in the tournament in 2002.
FIFA has been contacted for comment.