AFCON 2025 Final: Morocco vs Senegal – Preview, Road to the Final, Key Players, Stats, Predictions & Where to Watch

Date: Sunday, 18 January 2026
Venue: Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
Kick-off: 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT)

The Stage Is Set for a Historic Showdown

The TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 reaches its climax as hosts Morocco take on defending champions Senegal in Rabat. Both sides have displayed resilience, tactical discipline, and flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament, setting up a contest that promises drama and history.

How Morocco and Senegal Reached the Final

Morocco’s journey has been defined by consistency and defensive solidity. The Atlas Lions topped Group A unbeaten, swept past DR Congo in the Round of 16, edged Algeria in a fiery quarter-final, and held their nerve against Nigeria in a tense semi-final decided by penalties after a goalless draw. They have scored nine goals, conceded just two, and kept four clean sheets.

Senegal, meanwhile, have been equally impressive. The Lions of Teranga dominated Group C, beat Sudan 3-1 in the Round of 16, overcame Mali 1-0 in the quarter-finals, and defeated Egypt 1-0 in the semi-final thanks to Sadio Mané’s decisive strike. They have scored ten goals, conceded two, and kept three clean sheets, underlining their status as one of Africa’s most consistent teams.

Post-Match Reactions from the Semi-Finals

Morocco’s hero was goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who produced two crucial saves in the shootout against Nigeria to send his team into their first AFCON final in 21 years. “The atmosphere was incredible. This was not an easy match, but we fought together. Now we focus on recovery and preparing for the final to give our fans what they deserve,” said Bounou. Coach Walid Regragui added: “Reaching the final on home soil is a beautiful gift. We suffered, but we fought as one.”

Senegal’s victory over Egypt was sealed by Sadio Mané, who struck in the 78th minute to secure a narrow win. “We managed the game well from start to finish and deserved to win. Now we’ll focus on the final and give our best,” said Mané. Coach Pape Thiaw praised his players’ determination: “It was not easy against a good side like Egypt. My players were determined, and their determination showed on the pitch.”

Key Players to Watch

For Morocco, Yassine Bounou’s heroics and Achraf Hakimi’s leadership have been pivotal, while Brahim Díaz has lit up the tournament with five goals. Senegal will look to Sadio Mané’s creativity and experience, supported by Iliman Ndiaye’s dynamism in attack. Kalidou Koulibaly’s absence through suspension is a blow, but Senegal’s defensive unit remains strong.

Tournament Stats

Morocco lead the tournament in possession (61%) and have the best defensive record, while Senegal have scored the most goals from open play and remain unbeaten in ten AFCON knockout matches since 2019.

Final Preview and Prediction

This final pits Morocco’s defensive discipline and home advantage against Senegal’s attacking depth and experience. Expect a tactical battle with few clear chances.
Prediction: 1-1 after 90 minutes, Morocco to edge it on penalties.
Win probability: Morocco 52%, Senegal 48%.

Where to Watch AFCON 2025 Final

Fans can catch the action live across multiple platforms. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the match will be broadcast on SuperSport (DStv), with highlights available on Netflix’s AFCON Daily Show. In South Africa, the game will air free-to-air on SABC Sport and stream via SABC Plus. Globally, viewers can tune in on Channel 4 (UK), beIN Sports (US/Canada), and streaming services such as FuboTV.