Senegal, Morocco set for AFCON 2025 Final showdown in Rabat

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 reaches its exciting climax on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with hosts Morocco taking on Senegal in the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. 

This showdown between two of Africa's top-ranked teams promises to be filled with drama, as Morocco seeks to end a 50-year wait for their second continental title, last won in 1976, while Senegal aims for their second crown following their victory in 2021.

Kick-off is at 20:00 local time (Morocco) / 19:00 GMT / 22:00 EAT, with the match broadcast globally. The atmosphere will be electric, as a passionate home crowd backs the Atlas Lions in their bid for glory on familiar soil.

Senegal: Lions of Teranga seek back-to-back glory

Senegal arrives as one of Africa's most consistent forces, reaching their fourth AFCON final in recent years. Coached by Pape Thiaw, the Lions of Teranga have showcased defensive resilience (conceding sparingly) and attacking potency, with talisman Sadio Mane delivering the decisive goal in their 1-0 semi-final win over Egypt.

However, suspensions to captain Kalidou Koulibaly and midfielder Habib Diarra pose challenges. Despite this, Senegal's depth shines through stars like Edouard Mendy in goal, Idrissa Gana Gueye in midfield, and forwards Iliman Ndiaye and Nicolas Jackson.

Morocco: Atlas Lions chase home triumph

Under Walid Regragui, Morocco have built on their landmark 2022 World Cup semi-final run, displaying tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and flair. The hosts edged Nigeria 4-2 on penalties in the semi-final after a goalless draw, highlighting their mental fortitude.

No major absences for Morocco, with Brahim Diaz (tournament top scorer with five goals) in scintillating form alongside Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou, and striker Ayoub El Kaabi. Home advantage and an unbeaten competitive record on Moroccan soil since 2009 add extra momentum.

Key battles to watch: Sadio Mane vs Morocco's defense

Senegal's star forward, known for pace and finishing, will test Morocco's backline, anchored by Nayef Aguerd and the dynamic Achraf Hakimi. Brahim Diaz vs Senegal's Midfield. The Real Madrid playmaker has been the tournament's standout, scoring consistently. Senegal's experienced midfielders must disrupt his creativity.

Goalkeepers' duel: Mendy vs Bounou

Both Senegal's Edouard Mendy and Morocco's Yassine Bounou are world-class shot-stoppers whose saves could prove decisive, especially if penalties loom.

Head-to-head and stakes

This is the first AFCON meeting between the sides, and with both boasting tight defenses, it could be a tense, low-scoring affair that may extend to extra time or penalties.

Victory brings continental supremacy and a $10 million prize, with runners-up receiving $4 million, semi-finalists $2.5 million each, and quarter-finalists $1.3 million each, as well as a lasting legacy. For Senegal, back-to-back titles would solidify their dominance; for Morocco, a home win would cap a golden era following their World Cup heroics.

Third place play-off

Nigeria secured third place and a bronze medal following their 4-2 penalty shootout win over Egypt in the third-place playoff, highlighting the Super Eagles' resilience. 

This final is a celebration of African football's depth and excitement. Will the Atlas Lions roar to victory at home, or will the Lions of Teranga reign supreme once more? The continent—and the world—awaits!

(Edited by CGTN Africa reporter Halligan Agade)