Morocco hosts Senegal on 18 January 2025 at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in a decisive showdown for the Africa Cup of Nations title. The Atlas Lions chase their first trophy since 1976, while the Lions of Teranga aim for a second straight crown. Both squads face key absences, making midfield control the pivotal battle that will likely decide the champion.
Road to the Final
Morocco reached the final with a gritty 2‑1 semi‑final win over Egypt, blending disciplined defending with incisive attacks that leveraged home‑crowd energy. Senegal, the 2023 champions, advanced after a dominant 3‑0 semi‑final victory against Algeria, powered by the fast‑moving trio of Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Amadou Haidara.
Head‑to‑Head & Key Statistics
- AFCON meetings: 9 (Morocco 4 wins, Senegal 4 wins, 1 draw).
- Last encounter: 2021 quarter‑final, Senegal 2‑1 after extra time.
- Premier League experience: Morocco’s Sofiane Boufal, Romain Saïss; Senegal’s Sadio Mané, Nampalys Mendy.
- Style contrast: Morocco’s patient possession build‑up vs Senegal’s high‑tempo, direct transitions.
Line‑ups & Suspensions
Morocco will miss left‑back Achraf Hakimi (hamstring). Coach Walid Regragui is expected to start Youssef En‑Nesyri on the left, giving Sofyan Amrabat more freedom.
Senegal is without central midfielder Idrissa Gueye (red card). Aliou Cissé may promote veteran Nampalys Mendy to the starting defensive midfield role.
Tactical Preview
Morocco’s Approach
Regragui is likely to line up in a 4‑3‑3, emphasizing compactness and wing play. En‑Nesyri’s pace on the left and Boufal’s creativity aim to stretch Senegal’s high line, creating space for late runs into the box.
Senegal’s Approach
Cissé may retain a 4‑2‑3‑1, adjusting the midfield pivot deeper to cover Gueye’s absence. Mané could drop deeper to link play, while Haïdara and Sarr press high to disrupt Morocco’s build‑up. Midfield dominance will be the decisive factor.
What’s at Stake?
For Morocco, the final represents a chance to end a 50‑year title drought and validate recent investments in stadiums and youth development. A victory would spark nationwide celebration and boost the nation’s football profile.
Senegal seeks to cement its emerging dynasty with back‑to‑back AFCON titles, joining the ranks of Egypt and Cameroon, and to build momentum heading into the 2026 World Cup. Success would also enhance the legacies of Mané and coach Cissé.
How to Watch
The match kicks off at 19:00 GMT. It will be broadcast live across Africa on SuperSport, internationally via beIN Sports, and streamed on the CAF official platform and CAF YouTube channel for global viewers.
Final Thoughts
As the sun sets over Rabat, the atmosphere will be electric. Morocco’s home advantage and tactical discipline clash with Senegal’s fire‑power and experience. The 2025 AFCON final promises unforgettable drama, historic redemption for the hosts, and a testament to African football’s rising stature on the world stage.
