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| Photo From Getty Images |
Today… the moment of truth Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat is about to host the biggest sporting event on the African continent this year: the historic final between host nation Morocco and the 2021 title holders Senegal, concluding an exciting edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.
Morocco the Atlas Lions enter the match with a huge dream: ending a 50 year drought since their last continental title in 1976, and doing it on home soil in front of their fans. Led by coach Walid Regragui, the team delivered a stunning defensive tournament, conceding only two goals throughout the campaign, and reached the final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory 4-2 over Nigeria following a goalless draw in extra time.
Brahim Díaz (currently the tournament's top scorer) continues to shine, Achraf Hakimi (African Player of the Year 2025) dominates the right flank.
Senegal the Teranga Lions aim for a second title in three editions after their 2021 triumph. Under coach Aliou Cissé and led by Sadio Mané (who confirmed this is his last AFCON participation), they advanced to the final after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Egypt in the semi-final thanks to a late Mané goal. The team relies on solid defensive organization.
Key points before kick-off:
- First official meeting between the two teams in AFCON history, despite 31 previous encounters (18 wins for Morocco, 6 for Senegal, 7 draws).
- Home advantage: Morocco plays in front of around 69,000 fans, and history shows host nations have won 11 out of 14 finals played on home soil.
Moroccan fans have filled the streets since morning, flags waving everywhere, tension rising. Will the Atlas Lions harness the massive crowd support to write history? Or will Mané and Senegal prove once again they are Africa's dominant force?
Today is not just a final… today new chapters of African football legend are being written!
