Like a premonition. At the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, everyone agreed that the two best teams were Senegal and Morocco, the first two African nations in the FIFA ranking. And finally, the two teams will face off this Sunday during the final, in Rabat. And the least we can say is that the show will be guaranteed.
On one side, Morocco, the host country, semi-finalist of the 2022 World Cup, and who has been running behind a title since 1976. Above all, the Atlas Lions are in the final for the first time since 2004 (defeat against Tunisia). Above all, they have in their ranks a certain Achraf Hakimi, elected African Player of the Year 2025. Morocco’s XXL squad, with Brahim Diaz (top scorer with 5 goals), Nayef Aguerd, El Khanouss or even Ignamane, is still unbeaten. After having finished as leaders of group A (7 points), the Moroccans beat Tanzania (1-0), Cameroon (2-0) and Nigeria on penalties. Above all, Walid Regragui’s men are the best defense of the tournament with only one goal conceded, it was during the 2nd day on penalty against Mali.
A Super imposing Senegal
However, across the way, we will also have quite a client. Senegal is the 2nd best defense (conceded 2 goals), but also the 2nd best attack (12 goals, behind Nigeria and its 14 goals). Moreover, this will be the 3rd final of the Lions over the last 4 editions. A great regularity that testifies to the quality of Pape Thiaw’s group. The Senegalese finished first in group D ahead of the DRC, before beating respectively Sudan (3-1), Mali (1-0) and Egypt (1-0) in the second round.
In addition, a man stands out, driven by the desire to bring his country to the top of Africa for a second time: he is Sadio Mané. The number 10 scored 2 goals and delivered 3 assists in 6 games. Enough to offer an exceptional final, undoubtedly the greatest in history, to the many fans who are already licking their lips.
Striking fact: Senegal and Morocco are each chasing a second continental title, having won the African Cup of Nations only once in their history.