Morocco and Senegal March into AFCON 2025 Final after Semi-Final Drama

Hosts Morocco and defending champions Senegal will face off in the final of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations after both sides emerged victorious from dramatic and contrasting semi-final encounters on Wednesday.

The decisive matches showcased tension, tactical discipline and narrow margins, setting the stage for a highly anticipated finale in Rabat.

Morocco secured their place in the final after defeating Nigeria 4–2 on penalties following a tense 0–0 draw after extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Playing in front of a fervent home crowd, the Atlas Lions demonstrated composure and defensive solidity in a match that offered few clear-cut chances.

Nigeria applied sustained pressure for long periods, but Morocco’s well-organised backline and calm game management ensured they remained resilient throughout the 120 minutes.

With neither side able to break the deadlock, the contest was ultimately decided from the penalty spot.

Morocco showed greater nerve, converting four of their five attempts, while Nigeria managed just two.

The successful shootout sparked jubilant celebrations among the home supporters as Morocco reached their first AFCON final since 1976, the year they last lifted the trophy — also on home soil.

The result keeps alive hopes of a historic triumph for the host nation, whose campaign has been defined by tactical discipline and mental strength rather than attacking flamboyance.

Earlier in the day, Senegal booked their return to the AFCON final with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Egypt at the Stade de Tangier.

In a match between two of Africa’s most experienced footballing nations, Senegal showed maturity and patience to overcome an Egyptian side chasing a record-extending eighth continental title.

The decisive moment came through Sadio Mané, whose goal proved enough to separate the teams in a tightly contested encounter where chances were scarce and defensive organisation was paramount.

Egypt, seven-time AFCON champions, fought valiantly but were unable to find an equaliser, bringing an end to their latest title pursuit.

For Senegal, the victory reaffirmed their growing stature as one of the continent’s most consistent and dominant teams in recent years.

Since winning the title in 2021, the Lions of Teranga have continued to combine physical strength, tactical intelligence and elite individual quality on the biggest stage.

The final is now set for Sunday, 18 January, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Morocco will look to capitalise on home advantage and complete a memorable tournament by claiming only their second AFCON title, while Senegal aim to reclaim continental supremacy and further cement their legacy.

Meanwhile, Egypt and Nigeria will compete in the third-place play-off on Saturday, 17 January, at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca.

With a passionate home crowd, a host nation chasing history, and a reigning powerhouse seeking validation, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final promises a thrilling conclusion to a compelling tournament in Morocco.