Morocco and Senegal have booked their places in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final, setting up a tantalising continental decider on 18 January 2026 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
In Rabat on 14 January, host nation Morocco reached the final for only the second time in the modern era (excluding group-stage formats), winning a tense semi-final against Nigeria on penalties. After a goalless 120 minutes, Morocco prevailed 4–2 in the shootout, with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and the penalty takers holding their nerve in a high-pressure finish. The Atlas Lions’ disciplined defensive display and tactical organisation helped them keep Nigeria at bay through regulation and extra time before clutch spot-kick conversions sealed their spot.
Earlier in the day in the other semi-final, Senegal secured a 1–0 victory over Egypt thanks to a late goal from Sadio Mané, who struck in the second half after sustained pressure. Senegal dominated possession and frustrated the Egyptian side, limiting opportunities for Mohamed Salah and his teammates before sealing the win with a decisive finish.
The results mean that Morocco and Senegal will meet in the AFCON final on 18 January 2026, a match that promises to be one of the marquee fixtures of the tournament. Both teams overcame quality opponents to reach this stage Morocco’s route included a 2–0 quarter-final win over Cameroon, while Senegal showed resilience throughout the knockout stages to defend their title aspirations.
For Morocco, this final appearance is particularly significant. The hosts have not featured in an AFCON final in over two decades, with their only previous modern final coming in 2004; they last won the continental crown more than 50 years ago. A victory on home soil would mark a historic milestone and reward a campaign built on strong defence, tactical cohesion and key contributions from stars such as Brahim Díaz and Bounou.
Senegal, the 2021 champions, will arrive in the final with confidence after imposing their quality in midfield and attack, and they will be looking to add another trophy to their growing legacy in African football. The final is scheduled to take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, one of the continent’s leading venues, which has hosted several pivotal matches throughout the tournament.
AFCON 2025: Egypt and Nigeria advance to quarterfinals with big wins
