Senegal face host nation Morocco in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tonight.
Senegal are into their third final in four tournaments and aiming to be crowned continental champions for the second time, following success in 2021. The Lions of Teranga beat Egypt 1-0 in a tense semi-final showdown and now face a Morocco side backed by the home crowd.
The AFCON final is set:
🇸🇳 Senegal vs. Morocco 🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/8y7uMIWpHF
— B/R Football (@brfootball) January 14, 2026
Senegal team news
Pape Thiaw has been dealt a major blow by the absence of captain Kalidou Koulibaly. The Al-Hilal centre-back was booked in the semi-final win over Egypt and now misses the final through suspension.
It’s the second AFCON final that Koulibaly has missed through suspension after also serving a ban during the 2019 loss to Algeria. Abdoulaye Seck or Mamadou Sarr will come into the side at centre-back. Sadio Mane will captain the Senegal side in Koulibaly’s absence tonight.
Sunderland midfielder Habib Diarra is also banned for the clash. Diarra’s absence could lead to a role in the starting side for Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr, with AS Monaco youngster Lamine Camara an alternative option.
Senegal predicted lineup
Predicted Senegal XI: Mendy; Diatta, Sarr, Niakhite, Diouf; Sarr, I.Gana Gueye, P.Gueye; Ndiaye, Jackson, Mane.
What time is kick-off?
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final takes place at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday 18th January 2025. Kick-off in the final is 7pm GMT.
How to watch Senegal vs Morocco
The AFCON final will be broadcast on E4, with coverage starting at 6.30pm GMT.
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