Marrakech – The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) announced that gates at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium will open at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final between Morocco and Senegal. The organizational committee implemented this early access to prevent congestion and ensure smooth crowd flow.
The closing ceremony commences at 6:30 p.m., with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 p.m. The FRMF urged supporters to arrive early, demonstrate sporting spirit, and comply with all organizational directives around and inside the venue.
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— FRMF (@FRMFOFFICIEL) January 16, 2026
This continental showpiece represents Morocco’s quest to end a half-century drought since their 1976 triumph in Ethiopia. The Atlas Lions have reached only two finals in 20 participations, with their most recent appearance resulting in defeat against Tunisia in 2004.
Senegal arrives seeking their second continental crown after claiming their maiden title in 2021. For the Teranga Lions, this will be their third final to be contested in four editions, a testament to a golden era of Senegalese football at Africa’s top tournament. They suffered heartbreak as runners-up in 2002 and 2019.
The protagonists navigated divergent paths to Sunday’s denouement. Morocco topped Group A despite stuttering against Mali, then systematically dismantled Tanzania, Cameroon, and Nigeria in the knockout phase. Their semi-final against the Super Eagles required penalty resolution after a goalless stalemate.
Senegal’s trajectory mirrored their opponents’ early struggles. After securing qualification with victories over Botswana and Benin, they endured anxiety following their draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo. They subsequently eliminated Sudan, Mali, and Egypt through narrow margins.
This encounter marks the 32nd meeting between these West African powerhouses, though their inaugural AFCON confrontation. Morocco holds historical supremacy with 18 victories against Senegal’s six, plus seven draws.
The Atlas Lions enter on an unprecedented 25-match unbeaten streak, buoyed by their 2022 World Cup semi-final achievement – Africa’s finest showing at football’s grandest stage. Their campaign has showcased defensive resilience, conceding merely once throughout the tournament.
Senegal’s squad features extensive Premier League representation, including Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr, Everton duo Idrissa Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye, plus Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr.
Leading their charge is former Liverpool icon Sadio Mané, the talismanic captain who orchestrated their 2021 triumph.
Morocco counters with PSG’s Achraf Hakimi and Real Madrid’s prolific Brahim Diaz.
The 68,700-capacity venue promises an electrifying atmosphere as Morocco seeks to capitalize on home advantage. Sunday’s finale represents the culmination of three weeks of continental competition, with both nations harboring genuine aspirations of continental supremacy.
Moroccans have all rallied behind one resounding call – the trophy must stay at home.
The organizational measures reflect Morocco’s determination to deliver a memorable finale worthy of their hosting credentials and continental football’s prestige.
Read also: Senegal vs Morocco: Who Will Win the AFCON Morocco 2025 Trophy?
