The selections of Ivory Coast and Morocco faced each other in a friendly match in Abidjan, which ended in a draw (1-1). But beyond the result on the field, another controversy broke out around the resale of tickets to attend the meeting.
Indeed, several days before kick-off, many Internet users expressed their dissatisfaction at not finding tickets at the points of sale announced by the Ivorian Football Federation. Quickly, accusations of resale on the black market were launched, with places sold for two, three or even five times more than their initial price. This practice sparked outrage among many fans, who found themselves forced to pay exorbitant sums to attend the match.
Some people testified about their difficulties in finding tickets at a reasonable price, and denounced the alleged complicity of certain agents of the Federation and town halls in this illegal resale. Faced with these accusations, the Ivorian Football Federation published a press release to strongly condemn these practices and request the collaboration of the judicial authorities to identify those responsible.
An investigation has also been opened to find the people involved in this affair. A toll-free number has also been set up to collect testimonies regarding the resale of tickets. The Federation therefore wishes to take measures to prevent such scandals from recurring in the future.
This controversy highlights the difficulties football fans face when it comes to attending high-profile matches. Demand often exceeds supply, creating a thriving black market where ticket prices reach exorbitant sums. This situation is all the more worrying in countries where football plays a major role in society, and where international matches arouse particular enthusiasm.
It is essential that football regulators take measures to combat this illegal resale of tickets and protect fans. Secure online sales systems, the establishment of quotas for fans of opposing teams, and close collaboration with local authorities may be possible solutions.
Fans should also be aware of the risks associated with purchasing tickets on the black market and favor official channels to obtain their tickets. It is also important to report illegal practices and inform the relevant authorities in order to put an end to these fraudulent activities.
Thus, by ensuring fair access to football matches, sports federations and governing bodies will help to strengthen the passion and engagement of fans, while preserving the integrity and legality of sporting events.