The Africa Cup of Nations is set with Senegal clashing against Morocco on Sunday for the title of continental champion. Senegal managed to defeat Egypt to secure their spot in the final, while Morocco advanced through a tense penalty shootout against Nigeria, who had been the tournament’s top scorer. This final marks a pivotal moment for Morocco as they aim to win AFCON for the first time since 1976. Despite being stronger historically at World Cups, Morocco hasn’t placed better than fourth since 2004 in AFCON.
How to Watch Senegal vs. Morocco
- Date: Sunday, Jan. 18
- Time: 2 p.m. ET
- Location: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat, Morocco
- TV: beIN Sports
- Live Stream: Fubo (Try for free)
- Odds: Senegal +270; Draw +180; Morocco +125
Journey to the Final
Senegal
Senegal topped Group D without losing a match, exhibiting a formidable defense that conceded only one goal during the group stage. They overcame Sudan and then cruised past Mali in the quarterfinals following a red card against Mali. Against Egypt, Senegal’s exceptional defensive performance kept star player Mohamed Salah quiet, securing another shutout win.
Morocco
Morocco also finished Group A undefeated, scoring six goals while allowing merely one. Notably, Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz scored pivotal goals, supported by the return of Achraf Hakimi from injury, who has proven vital on the field. They edged out Tanzania and scored against Cameroon to reach the semifinals, eventually overcoming Nigeria with goalkeeper Yassine Bounou protecting the net under high stakes.
Key Players
Senegal
Attention will be on Sadio Mané, who despite being less of a goal-scorer this tournament has still contributed significantly with two goals and three assists. With support from Nicolas Jackson and Iliman Ndiaye, he is seen as a crucial component of Senegal’s attack.
Morocco
Brahim Diaz leads the race for the Golden Boot with five goals, being the primary source of goals for the team. For Morocco to succeed, he will need to return to form after being closely marked in previous games.
Predicted Lineups
Senegal: Edouard Mendy, Malick Diouf, Moussa Niakhate, Mamadou Sarr, Krepin Diatta, Lamine Camara, Idrissa Gana Gueye, Pape Gueye, Iliman Ndiaye, Nicolas Jackson, Sadio Mané
Morocco: Yassine Bounou, Noussair Mazraoui, Adam Masina, Nayef Aguerd, Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari, Neil El Aynaoui, Bilal El Khannouss, Abde Ezzalzouli, Ayoub El Kaabi, Brahim Diaz
Prediction
Having reached their first final since 2004, Morocco sees this as a prime opportunity to clinch AFCON victory. The stakes are high after a commendable showing at the 2022 World Cup, putting added pressure on the Atlas Lions. With a mix of calculated risks and fan support, Morocco appears poised to triumph over Senegal, potentially securing a tightly contested victory with a projected score of Senegal 0, Morocco 1.
