Morocco and Senegal secured their spots in the AFCON final after dramatic semi-final victories. Morocco defeated Nigeria in a penalty shootout, while Senegal beat Egypt 1-0 to set up a showdown between the host nation and the 2021 champions.
Fans took to the streets in both countries to celebrate the achievements. Morocco advanced after a tense 0-0 draw with Nigeria in regulation and extra time. In the shootout at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Youssef El-Nesyri converted the decisive penalty. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made two crucial saves, including stopping Samuel Chukwueze twice, while Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali saved one.
In the other semi-final, Sadio Mane scored the only goal in the 78th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box after Lamine Camara’s shot was blocked. Mane once again outperformed his former Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah, denying Egypt another title chance after their 2021 final loss to Senegal on penalties.
Final details and context
The final will take place in Rabat on Sunday between hosts Morocco and Senegal. Morocco aims for glory on home soil, while Senegal seeks a second continental crown since 2021.
Both semi-finals showcased high stakes and quality performances, with goalkeeping heroics and key individual moments deciding the outcomes.
