AFCON 2025 Final: Morocco vs Senegal, a Clash of Favorites for a Second Star

AFCON 2025 Reaches Its Grand Finale

After intense semi-finals featuring Africa’s elite, the final pairing is now confirmed. Senegal booked their place with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Egypt, while host nation Morocco edged past Nigeria after a goalless draw, winning 4-2 on penalties.

This final brings together two teams that were widely tipped for success even before the tournament kicked off, setting the stage for a decisive battle between the Lions of Teranga and the Atlas Lions.

Senegal: Calm Strength and Tactical Mastery

Senegal arrive in the final with an impressive and controlled run. Topping their group with ease, they secured dominant wins against Botswana and Benin (both 3-0) and drew against DR Congo (1-1).

In the knockout stages, Senegal maintained their efficiency, defeating Sudan (3-1) in the round of 16 and Mali (1-0) in the quarter-finals. Against Egypt in the semi-final, patience was key as the reigning champions relied on the brilliance of Sadio Mané, whose late goal sealed qualification.

However, Senegal will be without captain Kalidou Koulibaly  for the final, sidelined by injury and suspension and Habib Diara because of accumulation of 2 yellow cards, an absences that could weigh heavily against Morocco.

Morocco: Hosts Rising to the Occasion

As tournament hosts, Morocco have carried the weight of national expectation throughout AFCON 2025—and delivered when it mattered most. After finishing top of their group with victories over Comoros (2-0) and Zambia (3-0), and a draw against Mali (1-1), the Atlas Lions faced mounting pressure.

The knockout phase tested their resilience. A narrow win over Tanzania (1-0) preceded a commanding quarter-final performance against Cameroon (2-0). In the semi-final, Morocco produced a disciplined and mature display to neutralize Nigeria’s powerful attack, eventually prevailing in the penalty shootout.

Led by stars such as Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Díaz, and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, Morocco now stand just one step away from lifting their second AFCON trophy—almost 50 years after their historic triumph in 1976.

A Final Between Equals

This AFCON 2025 final represents a meeting of contrasting strengths: Senegal’s experience and composure versus Morocco’s defensive solidity and home advantage. Both teams have already proven their credentials, and with a second continental crown at stake, margins will be razor-thin.

In front of a packed stadium and an entire nation holding its breath, Morocco and Senegal will battle for African supremacy in what promises to be one of the most memorable AFCON finals in recent history.