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The 2026 Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Morocco, reaches its climax today with hosts Morocco facing defending champions Senegal in the final. The match kicks off at 9:00 p.m. local time (2:00 p.m. ET) at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Morocco topped Group A unbeaten, beat DR Congo in the round of 16, edged Algeria in the quarter-finals, and defeated Nigeria on penalties in the semi-finals, conceding just one goal all tournament with five clean sheets. Senegal showed resilience, advancing past strong opponents including a semi-final win over Egypt led by Sadio Mane, while scoring 12 goals and keeping four clean sheets.
Morocco enters on a 23-match unbeaten streak with defensive solidity and home advantage, making them slight favorites
for their first title since 1976. Senegal boasts a 27-match unbeaten run in competitive games and high-stakes experience from their 2021 triumph, leading the tournament in shots with 94. This marks their first-ever AFCON clash, though Morocco leads the overall head-to-head 18-6.
Senegal vs Morocco AFCON Final Predicted Lineups
Morocco (4-2-3-1): Bono; Hakimi, Aguerd, Masina, Mazraoui; El Aynaoui, Saibari; DÍaz, El Khannouss, Ezzalzouli; El Kaabi.
Senegal (4-3-3): Mendy; Diatta, M. Sarr, Niakhate, Diouf; I. Gueye, P. Gueye, Camara; Ndiaye, Jackson, Mane (missing Koulibaly and Diarra due to suspension).
Senegal vs Morocco Match Prediction: Who will Win the AFCON Final?
Both teams arrive in peak form. Morocco's home fortress and defensive masterclass with five clean sheets and a 23-match unbeaten run clash with Senegal's attacking flair of 12 goals and big-game pedigree from their 2021 win plus a 27-game streak. Suspensions weaken Senegal's backline. Expect a cagey tactical battle early. Hakimi's overlaps will test Senegal's depleted defense, while Mane's guile probes Morocco's flanks. Limited chances favour a stalemate, as Morocco's low concession rate meets Senegal's resilience.
Score Prediction: A 1-1 draw after 90 minutes or extra time, with El Kaabi equalizing after Jackson's opener. Morocco triumphs 4-3 on penalties thanks to Bono's heroics.
