Morocco coach Walid Regragui praises Senegal ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 final, calling the clash a “superb match‑up” between Africa’s best teams after his side’s semi‑final win.
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has described the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 final against Senegal as a “superb match‑up” between two of the continent’s best teams, after guiding the Atlas Lions past Nigeria in a tense semi‑final in Rabat.
Regragui’s comments capture the significance of the showdown to be played in Morocco on Sunday as both sides vie for continental glory.
Context and Background
Hosts Morocco booked their place in the AFCON final for the first time since 2004, defeating the Super Eagles of Nigeria 4–2 on penalties after a goalless draw through extra time at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on January 14. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was pivotal in the shootout, making decisive saves that sent the Moroccan crowd into raptures.
Senegal reached the final with a 1–0 semi‑final victory over Egypt, thanks to a late goal from Sadio Mané, and will now face Morocco in what promises to be a thrilling continental decider.
Speaking after Morocco’s dramatic semi‑final win, Regragui emphasised the quality of the final opponents. “It’s a superb final with the best African teams of the last three years,” he said, lauding Senegal’s tactical strengths and respectful rivalry.
The Moroccan coach also acknowledged the physical and technical demands that lie ahead, stressing that recovery and preparation would be essential in the build‑up to the showpiece match.
Regragui noted the historic nature of the encounter, with Morocco and Senegal facing each other in an AFCON final for the first time. “We have three days to recover,” he said, adding that both teams will arrive with confidence and ambition in equal measure.
The looming final between Morocco and Senegal carries significant weight for African football. It pits the tournament hosts and continental favourites against a seasoned Senegalese side led by the legendary Sadio Mané, who has been instrumental in their campaign.
The match is expected to command intense viewership across Africa and among global football audiences, highlighting the growing prominence of African national teams on the world stage.
For Morocco, victory on home soil could end a 50‑year wait for another AFCON title, last won in 1976, while Senegal aims to add to its growing continental pedigree after success in the 2022 edition. The final also offers a platform for star players to enhance their legacies and attract international club interest.
As Morocco prepares to face Senegal in the AFCON final, Walid Regragui’s optimism and tactical respect for their opponents underline the magnitude of the clash. Fans across Africa will be watching closely as both teams seek continental glory in what is widely regarded as a fitting final between two of the best teams on the continent.
