Morocco will battle Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title after both recorded semifinal wins. Morocco put up a strong effort in their dramatic championship match against Nigeria. The match finished in a gripping 0-0 draw after both full and extra time, ensuring Morocco a place. The critical moment came in the penalty shootout. Morocco came out on top 4-2 after a performance highlighted with a number of key saves in goal from Yassine “Bono” Bounou. The game was hosted at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium with a near full house of 65,458 energetic supporters on hand.
Bounou is the hero of the night! His most important play of the game came with two brilliant saves on Nigerian striker Samuel Chukwueze. His performance clearly dispelled any nerves in Morocco’s camp ahead of the shootout. Youssef El-Nesyri capped off Morocco’s historic win by scoring the winning penalty — leading Moroccan fans to celebration across the world on Friday.
On the other side of the tournament, Senegal reached the final as well, beating out Egypt in their semifinal match. The defending champs were overwhelming favorites and proved it, highlighted by Sadio Mane’s 140th minute thunderous strike to send the Oranje home early. Mane’s strike, taken from outside the penalty area, found the bottom left corner of the net, securing Senegal’s place in the final. Lamine Camara had started the move and had his own shot saved moments before Mane pounced to make it 1-0.
Those wins triggered euphoric celebrations in Morocco and Senegal, with cheering throngs pouring into the streets of both countries. Fans from both sides articulated their relief and excitement about their respective teams’ historic accomplishments, eagerly awaiting what should be an exhilarating final matchup.
The final will be Morocco vs Senegal, hosts for the Sunday final. Both sides have demonstrated incredible tenacity and skill during the tournament to reach this defining moment, making for a matchup that many have been eagerly awaiting.
