Mane vs Díaz: The star-studded AFCON final that will define an era of African football

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy will be up for grabs when defending champions Senegal face hosts Morocco in a blockbuster final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Kick-off is scheduled for 9pm SA time on Sunday.

Remarkably, both sides are pursuing just their second AFCON crown — a statistic that belies the pedigree, depth, and footballing heritage of two of the continent’s modern powerhouses.

Morocco arrive at the final with the advantage of home soil and the unwavering backing of a fervent crowd. That support has fuelled their run, but it also brings immense expectation as the Atlas Lions look to capitalise on a rare opportunity to lift the trophy in front of their own supporters.

Their journey to the final has been anything but straightforward, highlighted by a dramatic semi-final against Nigeria. Locked at 0–0 after regulation and extra time, Morocco held their nerve in a tense penalty shootout (4–2) to book their place in the showpiece.

Senegal, crowned African champions for the first time in 2021, are determined to add a second title and cement their status as one of the continent’s most consistent and complete sides.

Still smarting from their 2019 final defeat to Algeria, the Teranga Lions arrive in Rabat with a balanced squad packed with experience, physicality, and technical quality. Their ability to control matches and punish errors has been a defining feature of their campaign, and they will look to impose that authority on the hosts.

With continental pride and silverware at stake, the final is set to hinge on individual brilliance. Here are five players expected to have a decisive influence on the outcome:

Sadio Mané – Senegal

Mané enters the final in a confident mood after scoring the winner in Senegal’s hard-fought 1–0 semi-final victory over Egypt. A proven performer on the grandest stages, his influence extends beyond goals. Likely contesting his final AFCON, Mané’s leadership, intelligence, and ability to unlock defences could prove pivotal when the game hangs in the balance.

Idrissa Gana Gueye – Senegal

A model of consistency throughout the tournament, Gueye faces arguably his sternest challenge against a Morocco side driven by home support. His reading of the game, ball recovery, and composure under pressure will be vital—especially in the opening phases, when emotion could dictate the tempo.

Brahim Díaz – Morocco

Díaz has been the creative heartbeat of the Morocco attack, delivering decisive contributions under pressure. After finding the net in every match prior to the semi-final, he remains the player most capable of producing a moment of magic. His movement between the lines and eye for goal will keep the Senegal defence on high alert.

Ayoub El Kaabi – Morocco

With three goals to his name, including two stunning overhead kicks, El Kaabi carries immense confidence into the final. Senegal have been defensively resolute, conceding just twice, but El Kaabi’s timing, composure, and instinct in the box give Morocco a genuine cutting edge.

Nicolas Jackson – Senegal

While not everything has gone his way, Jackson remains a significant threat. He announced himself early with two goals in Senegal’s opening 3–0 win and continues to offer pace, movement, and unpredictability. In a tight final, one sharp run or a clinical finish from the Chelsea man could make all the difference.