Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has described the Atlas Lions’ place in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a special and historic moment for the nation.
Morocco sealed their spot in Sunday’s final after edging Nigeria 4-2 on penalties in a tense semi-final encounter that remained goalless after 120 minutes.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists will now lock horns with Senegal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, as they chase a second continental title.
“It’s a unique moment for us,” captain Achraf Hakimi said after Morocco’s semi-final win.
“We’ve made history once again. This team deserves it. All Moroccans deserve it. We are very happy, but we haven’t finished the job yet,” he added.
Kick-off for the final is scheduled for 19:00 GMT.
Morocco have dominated African football rankings in recent years, rising to the top of the continent following their historic run to the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar in 2022. They also set a new national team record last year with the longest winning streak, extending it to 19 victories during the current AFCON campaign.
Despite their recent success, Morocco have lifted the AFCON trophy only once, in 1976, and have reached just one final since then, in 2004. That history appeared to weigh on the team early in the tournament, as they made a cautious start.
However, the Atlas Lions seem to have shaken off those nerves in recent matches, producing energetic and aggressive displays against Cameroon and Nigeria. With passionate home support expected at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Morocco will be aiming to complete a memorable AFCON campaign on home soil.
