The relationship between Morocco and Senegal goes far beyond football, rooted in decades of political cooperation, cultural exchange and mutual respect.
Their ties are often seen as a model of strong relations between North and West Africa, built on shared values and sustained diplomatic engagement.
Morocco and Senegal established diplomatic relations on November 15, 1960, laying the foundation for a partnership that has steadily grown over the years.
Since then, both countries have consistently supported each other on key regional and international matters, strengthening trust through collaboration within African and global institutions.
A major turning point in the relationship came in 2001, when King Mohammed VI paid his first official visit to Senegal. That visit gave renewed momentum and substance to cooperation in priority development areas such as agriculture, fishing, education and training, health, water management, irrigation, telecommunications, urban planning, air transport and basic infrastructure.
The importance Morocco places on its ties with Senegal has been underlined by the King’s continued visits in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2013 and 2015.
Cultural and religious connections have also played a central role in shaping the closeness between the two nations. Morocco has long hosted Senegalese scholars and students in its Islamic learning centres, with shared Islamic traditions, particularly Sufism, fostering deep spiritual bonds that unite communities in both countries.
Economic cooperation has further reinforced this relationship, with Moroccan investments contributing to development and job creation in Senegal. These partnerships have been built on mutual benefit, helping to strengthen people-to-people ties and long-term cooperation.
In football, the friendship between Morocco and Senegal remains evident despite intense competition on the pitch. Encounters between the two sides are often fiercely contested but marked by respect, reflecting the broader relationship that exists off the field.
Together, Morocco and Senegal have cultivated a partnership grounded in history, cooperation and shared ambitions.
For 90 minutes and possibly an additional 30 minutes plus a penalty shootout, this relationship will be put aside on Sunday, January 18, when Morocco faces Senegal in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Both national teams will give everything to win what will be their country’s second AFCON title in the history of the competition.
