The stage is set for a thrilling clash as Senegal and Morocco go head-to-head in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Dakar, Senegal. Both teams have navigated a challenging tournament to reach this prestigious showpiece, and the anticipation is palpable as the two footballing powerhouses prepare to battle it out for continental glory.
Senegal, the reigning AFCON champions, will be looking to defend their title and cement their status as the dominant force in African football. Led by their talismanic striker, Sadio Mané, the Teranga Lions have showcased their attacking prowess throughout the tournament, scoring 12 goals in their six matches. The team’s defensive solidity has also been a key factor in their success, with the backline marshalled by experienced centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly.
In contrast, Morocco, the tournament hosts, are aiming to end their 50-year wait for an AFCON title. The Atlas Lions have been a revelation in this year’s competition, playing an attractive brand of possession-based football that has earned them plaudits from fans and pundits alike. The team’s midfield maestro, Hakim Ziyech, has been the driving force behind their impressive run, orchestrating the play and creating numerous chances for his teammates.
The final promises to be a clash of styles, with Senegal’s counter-attacking approach set to be tested against Morocco’s patient, probing game. Both teams have demonstrated their ability to grind out results under pressure, and the match is expected to be a closely contested affair.
Senegal’s head coach, Aliou Cissé, is confident in his team’s ability to defend their title, stating, “We’ve worked hard to get to this point, and we’re determined to leave our mark on the tournament. Our players are ready for the challenge, and we’re looking forward to a great game of football.”
Meanwhile, Morocco’s manager, Vahid Halilhodžić, is relishing the opportunity to end his nation’s long wait for AFCON glory, saying, “This is a momentous occasion for our team and our country. We’ve shown throughout the tournament that we have the quality and the resilience to compete with the best in Africa. We’ll give everything we have to bring the trophy home.”
The final is scheduled to kick off at 8 pm local time (7 pm GMT) on Saturday, 7th June 2025, at the Stade Léopold Sédar Senghor in Dakar. Both teams have named their starting lineups, with Senegal opting for a 4-2-3-1 formation and Morocco lining up in a 4-3-3 system.
Senegal XI: Edouard Mendy; Bouna Sarr, Kalidou Koulibaly, Abdou Diallo, Saliou Ciss; Idrissa Gueye, Nampalys Mendy; Ismaïla Sarr, Sadio Mané, Keita Baldé; Boulaye Dia.
Morocco XI: Yassine Bounou; Achraf Hakimi, Romain Saïss, Nayef Aguerd, Noussair Mazraoui; Sofyan Amrabat, Azzedine Ounahi, Hakim Ziyech; Youssef En-Nesyri, Ayoub El Kaabi, Sofiane Boufal.
The stage is set for a thrilling finale to the 2025 AFCON tournament, as two of Africa’s footballing giants go head-to-head in a battle for continental supremacy.
