The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) reaches its climax this Sunday in Morocco, where the Atlas Lions and Senegal will battle for continental glory.
Only one nation will lift the trophy at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, as hosts Morocco face the 2021 champions in what promises to be a tense final.
Although this will be the first AFCON meeting between the two sides, Morocco and Senegal have met 31 times in total, with Morocco holding a clear historical advantage.
Different Paths, Same Destination
Morocco’s route to the final has been built on defensive discipline. The Atlas Lions played all their matches in Rabat and allowed just one goal all tournament, keeping five clean sheets. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has been a standout performer, recording five shutouts and delivering crucial saves during the semi-final penalty shootout. Morocco’s tactical structure has been consistently strong, making them one of the toughest teams to break down.
Senegal, meanwhile, have reached the final through consistent attacking quality. The Lions of Teranga won five of their six matches and scored in every game, ending the tournament with 12 goals— their best scoring run in a single AFCON. Their defence has also been impressive, conceding only two goals throughout the competition.
Senegal also arrive in Rabat with an impressive record: 17 consecutive AFCON matches unbeaten, underlining their strength and depth. Key to their success has been Sadio Mané, whose leadership and goal-scoring prowess have once again been decisive.
Head-to-Head and What It Means
Morocco lead the overall head-to-head record with 18 wins, compared to Senegal’s six, with seven draws. The Atlas Lions have won four of the last six encounters, including a penalty shootout victory over Senegal in the 2024 CHAN, where Morocco went on to reclaim the title.
However, Senegal’s record in big matches cannot be ignored. The West African side have reached four AFCON finals since 2002, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure even when facing superior historical records.
A Trophy Long Overdue
For Morocco, this final is a chance to end a long wait. The Atlas Lions have not won the AFCON since 1976, when the tournament used a round-robin format. Hosting the competition adds pressure but also provides a major advantage—Morocco is only the 15th host nation to reach an AFCON final, and the last three hosts to do so went on to win the trophy.
Senegal, on the other hand, are aiming to secure a second AFCON title after their breakthrough success in 2021. While they are not defending champions—Côte d’Ivoire claimed the title in the last edition—the Lions of Teranga have been Africa’s most consistent side in recent years, and another win would firmly establish their dominance.
Tactical Battle Likely to Decide Final
The final is expected to be decided by fine margins. Morocco’s compact, organised defence will face a stern test against Senegal’s pace and direct attacking play. Senegal must be careful not to overcommit, as Morocco are lethal on the counter.
Given the history of low-scoring AFCON finals, the match could hinge on discipline and game management—where a single mistake could determine who lifts the trophy.
