From the opening whistle of the group stage to the tension filled penalty shootouts, AFCON 2025 has been a tournament of intensity, emotion, and belief. Africa’s biggest stage will host a dream final between Senegal and hosts Morocco, the top two African nations at the moment each battling for a second continental crown at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday, January 18. Historically, the two nations have faced each other 31 times, with Morocco recording 18 wins, against Senegal’s seven while six other encounters ended in a draw. Their most recent meeting ended 1–1 in a friendly match on August 26, 2025, but Sunday’s encounter will carry far greater stakes. Morocco chasing history For Morocco, this final represents more than a match. The Atlas Lions have been waiting for a continental title since 1976, and this is their first AFCON final since 2004, when they fell to then hosts Tunisia. Under Walid Regragui, Morocco have continued the momentum built during their historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Their squad is stacked with elite talent, African Ballon d’Or winner Achraf Hakimi, tournament top scorer Brahim Díaz (5 goals), and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Morocco finished top of Group A with 7 points, remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament. They defeated Tanzania 1–0 in the round of 16, Cameroon 2–0 in the quarterfinals, and eliminated Nigeria on penalties in the semi-finals. Defensively, they have arguably the best defence of AFCON 2025, having conceded just once against Mali on matchday two. Morocco coach Walid Regragui in his pre-final press conference recalled that “Senegal have played four AFCON finals and are used to this kind of occasion,” adding that “it will be a great match and we hope to be up to the task to make history.” He also emphasized the special pressure weighing on the Atlas Lions, driven by the expectations of their home supporters. Standing in Marocco way is Senegal, one of Africa’s most consistent footballing power of the last decade. The Lions of Teranga are playing their third AFCON final in the last four editions, underlining their dominance at the continental level. Senegal finished top of their group ahead of DR Congo, before knocking out Sudan 3–1, Mali 1–0, and Egypt 1–0. They have the second best defense of the tournament with just 2 goals conceded and the second best attack with 12 goals scored. The final will, however, be played without captain Kalidou Koulibaly who is suspended and injured. In his absence, all eyes will now turn to Sadio Mané. At 33, Mané may no longer be the explosive winger of his Liverpool prime, but his leadership, experience, and ability to rise in decisive moments remain invaluable. After scoring the winning goal against Egypt, Mané described the journey as a collective mission. He also revealed that this final would mark a special milestone in his international career. “This is a collective effort. I’m happy, and I’m happy for the team. Personally, I would be very honored to play my last AFCON final and to win it for my country.” he said. For Morocco, it is the chance to complete a long awaited dream at home and, for Senegal, it is the opportunity to confirm an era and lift a second African crown. Kick-off: Sunday, January 18, 9:00 PM CAT.
