Morocco, Senegal reach AFCON final after dramatic semi-finals

Morocco and Senegal will face off in this weekend's Africa Cup of Nations final after both won tense semi-finals on Wednesday. Morocco beat Nigeria 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in Rabat. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou saved two penalties, including from Samuel Chukwueze, allowing Youssef En-Nesyri to score the winning kick before over 65,000 fans. Nigeria coach Eric Chelle said: "We were maybe the best team that there has been in this AFCON," after his side lost their second consecutive final. Senegal's Sadio Mane scored a 78th-minute winner to defeat Egypt 1-0 in Tangiers. The 33-year-old announced it was his last AFCON tournament. Mane said: "I'm very happy to be able to play in my very last AFCON. I hope to win it and bring the trophy back to Dakar." Senegal dominated possession against Egypt, denying Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah his first AFCON title in his fifth attempt. Senegal, champions in 2022, are appearing in their fourth final overall. Morocco is chasing its first AFCON title since 1976. The final will be played this weekend at a venue yet to be confirmed by CAF.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/01/15/hosts-morocco-set-up-afcon-final-showdown-with-senegal/