Arjun Menon
The stage is set for a heavyweight clash as the Senegal national football team face the Morocco national football team in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. With continental glory on the line, this high-stakes encounter will be played at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, where Morocco will enjoy home support.
Match Preview
Senegal arrive in the final after edging past Egypt with a narrow 1-0 victory in the semi-finals. It was a tight and tactical contest, but the Lions of Teranga showed composure and defensive discipline when it mattered most. With one AFCON title already in their cabinet, they will be aiming to lift the trophy for the second time.
Morocco, meanwhile, had to dig deep to overcome Nigeria. The semi-final ended goalless after extra time before the Atlas Lions progressed via a penalty shootout. Despite dominating long spells of the match, Walid Regragui’s side struggled to convert control into clear-cut chances, an issue they must resolve ahead of the final.
Senegal Team News
Senegal had enjoyed an excellent injury record throughout the tournament, but their semi-final win came at a cost. Captain Kalidou Koulibaly is suspended for the final after picking up a booking and was later withdrawn with what appeared to be a groin issue.
Habib Diarra is also unavailable after being suspended for dissent. These absences could force head coach Pape Thiaw into changes, particularly in midfield and defence.
There will be pressure on Nicolas Jackson, who struggled to make an impact against Egypt. Senegal looked short of attacking inspiration in the latter stages of that match, and fresh legs could be introduced if Thiaw opts for a more dynamic approach.
Morocco Team News
Morocco come into the final in a stronger position squad-wise. There were no new injury concerns or suspensions picked up against Nigeria, giving Regragui a near full-strength group to choose from.
However, Azzedine Ounahi remains sidelined due to injury and will miss the final. Despite their control in the semi-finals, Morocco lacked cutting edge in the final third, which could prompt a slight tactical reshuffle to add more creativity around the box.
Predicted Lineups
Morocco Predicted Lineup (4-1-4-1)
GK: Bounou
Defence: Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui
Midfield: El Aynaoui; Díaz, El Khannouss, Saibari, Ezzalzouli
Forward: El Kaabi
Senegal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
GK: Mendy
Defence: Diatta, Mamadou Sarr, Niakhaté, Diouf
Midfield: Diarra, Idrissa Gueye, Pape Gueye
Attack: Ndiaye, Jackson, Mané
Tactical Outlook
Senegal are likely to rely on their physical presence and midfield solidity, with Idrissa Gueye anchoring play and allowing Sadio Mané to attack from wider areas. Morocco, on the other hand, will look to dominate possession through their technical midfield and use the pace of Hakimi and Ezzalzouli to stretch Senegal’s back line.
With both sides chasing a second AFCON title, fine margins could decide the outcome. Discipline, game management, and moments of individual quality are likely to prove decisive on the night.