Morocco will face Senegal in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday, January 18, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with Eliesse Ben Seghir describing the tournament as one of the most demanding experiences of his young career.
The final sets up a high-profile contest between the host nation’s Atlas Lions and the Lions of Teranga, champions of the 2021 edition.
With the continental title at stake, anticipation continues to build across Rabat and beyond, as two of Africa’s most consistent sides meet on the biggest stage.
For Ben Seghir, the occasion carries deep personal meaning. At just 20, the Bayer Leverkusen attacking midfielder prepares to contest the first major final of his career.
The moment represents a milestone for a player who committed his international future to Morocco in 2024 and now stands on the verge of continental glory.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has drawn widespread praise for its intensity and technical quality, and Ben Seghir counts himself among those impressed.
The young playmaker has followed every phase of the competition closely and expressed admiration for the standard shown by teams throughout the tournament.
He highlighted the pace, physical demand, and tactical discipline that have defined this edition of the AFCON.
According to Ben Seghir, the tournament has challenged players at every level and demanded total focus in every match.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference, he addressed the difficulty of the competition and the pressure that comes with representing an entire nation on home soil.
“I didn’t think an AFCON tournament was this tough,” Ben Seghir admitted.
He also stressed the mental strength within the Moroccan camp, pointing to the collective work carried out over the past two years under head coach Walid Regragui. He described a group that understands the expectations and remains fully focused on the final task.
Ben Seghir reflects the new generation of Moroccan footballers, blending technical quality with ambition and maturity.
His presence in the squad underlines Morocco’s commitment to building a team capable of competing consistently at the highest level of African football.
The final against Senegal promises intensity, emotion, and quality, with both sides aiming to write a new chapter in their continental history.
For Ben Seghir, the match offers a chance to turn admiration for the tournament into a lasting memory, as he and his teammates chase the ultimate prize on home soil.
