Senegal will face Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final without two key players after suspensions ruled them out of Sunday’s showdown in Rabat.
The final will take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where host nation Morocco will challenge the reigning African champions for the continental title.
Senegal booked their place first after edging past Egypt with a 1–0 victory earlier in the evening, confirming their status as one of the tournament’s most resilient sides.
Morocco later joined them in the final following a dramatic semi-final against Nigeria.
The Atlas Lions secured qualification after a goalless draw and a 4–2 victory in the penalty shootout, once again at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The result sparked celebrations among home supporters and set up a highly anticipated final against Senegal.
Despite the excitement surrounding the fixture, Senegal will have to adjust without captain Kalidou Koulibaly and midfielder Habib Diarra.
Both players picked up suspensions through an accumulation of yellow cards during the knockout phase of the tournament.
Koulibaly received a booking against Egypt before injury forced him off the pitch just six minutes later in Tangier.
The caution proved decisive, as he already stood one card away from suspension following a previous sanction during the quarter-final defeat to Mali.
A late challenge on Omar Marmoush confirmed his ban, adding to a difficult tournament for the defender, who had already suffered a red card during the group stage.
Habib Diarra will also miss the final after the referee cautioned him during a tense confrontation between players in the previous round.
His absence further reduces Senegal’s options in midfield, especially against a Moroccan side that has shown discipline and control throughout the competition.
In contrast, Morocco enters the final with a full squad available. The hosts avoided any suspensions and now prepare with renewed confidence and motivation, driven by the prospect of lifting the trophy on home soil.
The final now presents a test of depth and character for Senegal, while Morocco looks to seize momentum and crowd support.
With key absences on one side and a complete squad on the other, Sunday’s clash promises intensity, pressure, and a defining moment for African football.
