Morocco and Senegal Set for High‑Stakes AFCON 2025 Final Clash in Rabat — Hosts Bid to End 50‑Year Wait for Title

Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (FMC) – Africa’s top football nations prepare for a riveting conclusion to the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) as host nation Morocco faces Senegal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat today. The final caps a tournament that began on 21 December 2025, featuring 24 teams and moments of drama, skill, and intense competition that captivated fans across the continent and the world.

Morocco advanced to the final after a tense semi-final stalemate against Nigeria, eventually prevailing 4–2 on penalties following a goalless 120 minutes. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was crucial in the shootout, and Youssef En‑Nesyri converted the decisive spot-kick to send the hosts through — bringing Morocco within one match of their first AFCON crown since 1976. Standout performer Brahim Díaz has been instrumental throughout the tournament, leading Morocco’s charge with skill and composure.

Senegal booked their place in the showpiece by edging Egypt 1–0 in the semi-final, with veteran forward Sadio Mané scoring the decisive goal. The Teranga Lions are chasing their second continental title following their 2021 triumph and arrive in Rabat with confidence and strong form.

Both sides enter the final with contrasting team situations. Morocco, coached by Walid Regragui, is largely at full strength, though midfielder Azzedine Ounahi remains sidelined due to a calf injury sustained earlier in the knockout phase. Morocco’s defense has been the tournament’s strongest, conceding only one goal and keeping five clean sheets.

Senegal faces key absences in the final, with defensive leader Kalidou Koulibaly suspended after receiving a booking in the semi-final, alongside midfielder Habib Diarra. Coach Pape Thiaw may have to adjust his defensive and midfield tactics accordingly. Despite these setbacks, Senegal has been in formidable form, going unbeaten in their last 17 AFCON matches and conceding only two goals in the current tournament.

The final has also been marked by tension off the pitch. The Senegalese Football Federation raised concerns about security arrangements and accommodation conditions for the team in Rabat, while also criticizing the limited allocation of tickets for their supporters in the 69,500-capacity stadium.

Tactically, Morocco will rely on possession, defensive discipline, and the attacking threat of Brahim Díaz, supported by wide players like Achraf Hakimi, who provide pace and creativity. Senegal, meanwhile, will look to exploit the movement and vision of Sadio Mané, with Idrissa Gueye anchoring the midfield.

This final is the first AFCON decider between Morocco and Senegal, although the two nations have met 31 times previously in various competitions, with Morocco historically holding a slight edge. Morocco’s defensive resilience faces Senegal’s balanced mix of attack and defense, promising a tightly contested and thrilling final.

As kickoff approaches, football fans across Africa and the world are poised for a dramatic climax to a tournament that has delivered memorable moments and powerful narratives. Victory would end Morocco’s 50-year wait for continental glory, while a win for Senegal would reaffirm their status as one of Africa’s most consistent and successful teams in recent years.

The match begins today at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where Morocco and Senegal will battle for the AFCON 2025 title.