Sun Jan 18 18:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Morocco and Senegal Vie for African Crown in Highly Anticipated AFCON Final

The Story:
Rabat, Morocco – In a clash of titans, host nation Morocco and Senegal are set to battle for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on January 18, 2026. The final, being held in Rabat, pits North Africa’s leading team, Morocco, against Senegal, considered the best from sub-Saharan Africa. Morocco are eager to end their 50-year title drought, while Senegal aims to cement their place among Africa’s football elite after reaching their third final in four tournaments. The match promises high stakes and intense competition.

Key Points:

  • The AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal takes place on January 18, 2026, in Rabat.
  • Senegal’s right-back, Krepin Diatta, is injured and replaced by Antoine Mendy.
  • Morocco’s route to the final included victories over Comoros, Zambia, Tanzania, and Cameroon, plus a penalty shootout win against Nigeria.
  • Senegal’s path to the final involved wins against Botswana, Benin, Sudan, and Mali, along with a semi-final victory over Egypt.
  • Morocco are unchanged from their semi-final lineup, while Senegal makes three changes due to injury and suspension.
  • The referee for the match is Jean Jacques Ngambo Ndala (DR Congo).
  • Morocco is aiming for their second AFCON title and first in 50 years.
  • Senegal seeks to establish themselves as one of African football’s greatest teams with a victory.
  • Pre-match reports indicate Senegal criticized a lack of “fair play” leading up to the final.

Key Takeaways:

  • The AFCON final presents a significant opportunity for both Morocco and Senegal to make history.
  • The pressure on Morocco as hosts is immense, given their long wait for another title.
  • Senegal’s consistency in reaching AFCON finals demonstrates their strength and ambition.
  • Injuries and suspensions have forced Senegal to make crucial changes to their starting lineup.
  • The final is expected to be a tightly contested affair, prioritizing tactical discipline over entertainment.

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