Organisers of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco have introduced new stadium security technology to tackle laser misuse by fans, while also easing ticket access at matches with low early attendance.
High-definition surveillance and facial-recognition systems are now being deployed at AFCON venues to identify supporters directing laser pointers towards players and match officials.
The move follows incidents earlier in the tournament, including a match involving referee Jean-Jacques Ndala, who was targeted by lasers during a group-stage fixture, prompting renewed concerns over player safety and fair play.
Videos circulating on social media show security personnel using crowd-monitoring cameras to pinpoint offenders in the stands, with those identified swiftly removed from stadiums.
Laser interference has previously disrupted matches at continental tournaments, often during decisive moments, and organisers believe the technology will act as both a deterrent and a rapid response tool.
Alongside the enhanced security measures, organisers have also adjusted ticketing arrangements to address inconsistent crowd numbers during the group stage.
A source within the Confederation of African Football (CAF) told AFP that, with the governing body’s approval, stadium gates are opened approximately 20 minutes after kick-off when seats remain unfilled, allowing supporters waiting outside to enter free of charge.
Wednesday’s Group F match between Cameroon and Gabon in Agadir began with visibly sparse attendance, with persistent rainfall cited as a factor for slow early arrivals.
Crowd numbers increased as the match progressed, and an official attendance of 35,200 was announced at the 45,000-capacity stadium by full-time.
Similar patterns have been observed at several matches since the tournament began, raising questions around ticket sales and attendance reporting.
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CAF’s ticketing platform continues to list seats for most group-stage fixtures, with prices starting from 100 Moroccan dirhams, while only a limited number of games have sold out.
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Ensuring fuller stadiums is viewed as a key priority for Moroccan organisers as the country prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.
