AFCON 2025 has already witnessed some intense moments where Congolese official Jean-Jacques Ndala was a target during the match between Morocco and Comoros, Soccernet.ng reports.
However, the Moroccan stadium authorities are now taking no chances when it comes to fan behaviour, as per reports, they deployed advanced technology to identify and remove offenders during games.
The move comes amid growing concerns over player safety and fair play, particularly after incidents in previous tournaments where lasers disrupted key moments during games.
Referee Jean Jacques Ndala Ngambo during Cameroon vs Ethiopia at the Africa Cup of Nations at Olembe Staduim. Copyright: xChristopherxOnahx
AFCON 2025: New tech used to weed out laser-wielding fans
According to multiple reports and a trending video circulating online, Moroccan stadiums are now using high-definition cameras and crowd-monitoring systems (facial-recognition cameras) to detect supporters wielding laser pointers.
Watch the video here:
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Soccernet (@soccernet_ng)
Those identified are immediately ejected from the stadium, preventing further distractions or potential harm to players.
This technology has already been applied in a recent AFCON 2025 match, which demonstrates a proactive approach to stadium safety.
Brahim Abdelkader Diaz of Morocco during the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON match between Morocco and Comoros. Photo by Vincent Kamto Copyright: xChrisxKimbax
What has previously happened
During the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final and other AFCON matches, laser pointers were aimed at players during critical moments such as penalties and free kicks.
Nigerian stars, including Esther Okoronkwo and Michelle Alozie, were among those affected. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) condemned the incidents and demanded action from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Esther Okoronkwo in action for the Super Falcons of Nigeria in action against Morocco in the WAFCON 2024 final. [Photo Credit/ CAF on X].
Is this good for AFCON?
The new measures are largely seen as a positive step for African football. It is argued that these measures help maintain the integrity of the game while also protecting players and referees from unnecessary risks.