RABAT, Morocco – The eyes of the footballing world turn to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium today, January 18, as hosts Morocco battle defending champions Senegal in the final of the 2025/26 Africa Cup of Nations.
This is more than just a match; it’s a clash of titans featuring some of the biggest names in the sport. Kick-off is set for 7:00 PM (GMT), with both nations desperate to etch their names in history.
The Stars Who Can Decide the Title
Sadio Mané (Senegal): The legendary forward is on a mission to secure back-to-back titles for the Teranga Lions. Mané was the hero in the semi-final, scoring the only goal against Egypt. With three assists already in the tournament, his experience in “clutch” moments remains Senegal’s greatest weapon.
Brahim Díaz (Morocco): The Real Madrid star has been the revelation of the tournament. As the current top scorer with five goals, Díaz has adapted perfectly to African football, scoring in crucial knockout stages and proving to be the “inspiration” for Walid Regragui’s side.
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco): Regarded as the best right-back in the world, the PSG star will have the difficult task of neutralizing Mané. Hakimi has looked increasingly sharp after an injury scare earlier in the tournament and remains Morocco’s central figurehead.
Yassine “Bono” Bounou (Morocco): The “Penalty King” is Morocco’s insurance policy. After his heroics against Nigeria in the semi-final shootout, Bono’s presence in goal provides immense confidence to the home crowd.
Predicted Lineups
Senegal (4-3-3): Édouard Mendy; Diatta, Niakhaté, Mamadou Sarr, Diouf; Pape Gueye, Gana Gueye, Lamine Camara; Iliman Ndiaye, Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson. (Note: Captain Kalidou Koulibaly misses out through suspension).
Morocco (4-3-3): Bono; Hakimi, Masina, Aguerd, Mazraoui; El Khannouss, Saibari, El Aynaoui; Brahim Díaz, Abde Ezzalzouli, Ayoub El Kaabi.
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What’s at Stake?
Morocco is chasing their first AFCON title in 50 years (since 1976), aiming to become the first host nation to win since Côte d’Ivoire in 2023. Senegal, meanwhile, is looking to replicate the heroics of Egypt and Tunisia by winning consecutive trophies and cementing their status as Africa’s current dominant force.
Miguel Manjate is a football journalist and editor covering the Premier League, European competitions, and transfer news, with a strong focus on match analysis and data-driven reporting.
