Senegal's 24-year-old winger, Krepin Diatta, has publicly labeled the organizers of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations as corrupt. The outspoken Monaco player expressed his frustration after the Teranga Lions were eliminated by Ivory Coast on Monday. Speaking to France 24, Diatta criticized the center referee, Referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), and CAF staff in the mixed zone for not awarding Senegal a penalty.
"You have killed us. You are corrupt. Keep your African Cup," Diatta exclaimed after the final whistle. The player accused the gathered officials of bias, highlighting a controversial moment where Senegal's Sarr picked up the ball 40 meters from goal, went on a run into the box, yet the VAR was not consulted.
"I'm sorry, but that is going too far. I'm sorry, but they have killed our competition," Diatta emphasized.
The elimination unfolded as Ivory Coast ousted Senegal 5-4 on penalties, securing their spot in the quarter-finals of the tournament. Diatta's bold accusations against the AFCON 2023 organizers raise questions about the tournament's integrity and fairness, sparking debates and discussions among football enthusiasts worldwide.
