On Sunday, host nation Morocco will face Senegal in the African Cup of Nations final. This match concludes a four-week tournament that showcased the continent's finest football. The game will be held at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, drawing a massive crowd. This clash symbolizes the present and future of African football heading toward the 2030 World Cup, as Morocco is set to be a co-host. For Morocco, the final is a historic chance to win its second title in 50 years and validate its significant infrastructure leap. The country is building modern stadiums and logistics with a long-term vision. The pressure is immense: the team is driven by its fans and has performed nearly perfectly, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament, a penalty to Mali in the group stage. Senegal, the 2021 champions, also seeks a second star, presenting a formidable challenge with solid defense and star power. Led by Edouard Mendy in goal and Sadio Mané as the main figure, the Lions of Teranga advanced to the final after eliminating Egypt in a semi-final marked by the Mané vs. Salah duel. However, Aliou Cissé's team faces two major losses: captain Kalidou Koulibaly and midfielder Habib Diarra are suspended due to accumulated yellow cards. Individually, the tournament featured standout players. For Morocco, Brahim Díaz was the star, scoring in each of the first five matches and serving as the main offensive hope. Meanwhile, Achraf Hakimi, despite missing initial games with an injury, became a key piece in the knockout stages, constantly posing a threat down the right flank. Coach: Walid Regragui. Senegal: Edouard Mendy; Krépin Diatta, Moussa Diouf, Moussa Niakhaté, Mikayil Sarr; Pape Gueye, Lamine Camara, Idrissa Gueye; Sadio Mané, Nicolas Jackson, Ismaila Ndiaye. Coach: Pape Thiaw.
