Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou has been awarded a special prize as the Atlas Lions gears up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final against Senegal.
The 35th edition of the continental showpiece will come to an end on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with Morocco set to battle it out with Senegal for the ultimate title.
The high-profile finale between the Atlas Lions and the Taranga Lions has been scheduled to take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Morocco are chasing their second AFCON title just as Senegal, who last won the trophy in 2021 in Cameroon.
Prior to the final, Bounou, who plies his trade for Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal has been adjudged the Best Athlete prize at the Joy Awards festival, held in Riyadh on Saturday.
The former Sevilla shot stopper beat off competition from teammate Salem Al-Dawsari, the captain of Al-Hilal to secure the top award.
A representative of the player accepted the award, as he is currently in Morocco preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations final.
Bounou had shone and delivered outstanding performances last year with Al-Hilal, including his brilliance in the Club World Cup with Al-Hilal. He also succeeded in shining in Morocco’s journey in the World Cup qualifiers, and in the current edition of the African Cup of Nat
He is expected to play a huge role for Morocco, as the team battle for the 2025 Africa Cup- of Nations title.
