Senegal and Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked teams in FIFA standings, are in advanced talks to organize a friendly match in France as part of their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This potential clash between the Lions of Teranga and the Atlas Lions is expected to take place during the winter break preceding the tournament, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
According to the Senegalese publication Source A, discussions between the two football federations appear promising.
While a similar proposal last year failed to materialize, the current negotiations suggest greater commitment to making the high-profile encounter a reality.
France has emerged as the most likely venue for logistical reasons. The country has previously hosted numerous international friendlies featuring African teams.
Notably, in March, Côte d’Ivoire played against Benin and Uruguay in Amiens and Lens, while Morocco faced Burkina Faso in Lens’ Stade Bollaert-Delelis.
Senegal also used French grounds during the same period, defeating Benin and Gabon at the Stade de la Licorne.
Historical Rivalry and Rankings
This anticipated meeting would mark the fourth encounter between Morocco and Senegal. Their last clash was in October 2020, a friendly in Rabat, where Morocco secured a 3-1 victory.
Historically, the Atlas Lions have had the upper hand, winning two out of three matches.
For Morocco, currently ranked 14th in the FIFA world rankings, this match offers a golden opportunity to solidify their position among football’s elite.
A win against Senegal, the 2021 AFCON champions and ranked 19th globally, could propel them closer to breaking into the top 10 and bolster their confidence ahead of the continental competition.
On the other hand, Senegal is eager to reclaim its status as Africa’s top-ranked team, a position they lost following the 2022 World Cup. A
victory against Morocco would not only restore their image but also underline their ambitions to reestablish themselves as the continent’s leading football powerhouse.
A Battle of Lions
Dubbed a clash of African titans, this potential match pits the continent’s two best teams against each other, each vying to assert dominance ahead of AFCON 2025.
With both sides boasting world-class talent and aiming to fine-tune their strategies, the friendly promises to be a compelling preview of what’s to come on Africa’s grandest football stage.
