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Three Saudi Stars Light Up AFCON Final: Morocco vs Senegal

15 January 2026

Three Saudi Stars Light Up AFCON Final: Morocco vs Senegal
Three Saudi Pro League stars headline AFCON final action in Rabat.

Overview

Three stars from the Saudi Pro League will feature in the Africa Cup of Nations final, as Morocco and Senegal meet in AFCON 2025’s headline clash. One player will miss the final due to suspension, while the rest bring depth and experience to their teams. The match is set for Sunday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Final Details

Only Yassine Bono from the Saudi Pro League is set to play for Morocco, while Sadio Mane and Edouard Mendy anchor Senegal’s attack and defense, with Kalidou Koulibaly suspended after a second yellow against Egypt in the semi finals. Mane will lead the Senegalese attack after scoring the winner against Egypt to reach the final. Bono starred in the semi by saving two penalties against Nigeria and has kept multiple clean sheets in the tournament. Mendy, who plays for Al Ahly, will guard Senegal’s goal, having conceded only a couple of goals in the competition. Koulibaly’s suspension opens the door for other defenders to step in.

Altogether, Mane has two goals and two assists so far, and he hopes to keep contributing as Senegal chase the title for the second time in three editions. The final will feature three Saudi Pro League players and could crown a memorable cross‑continental moment.

Punchlines and light notes: If football were a movie, Mane would be the hero and Bono the secret weapon—watch for the plot twists in the dying minutes. And if you’re betting, remember: the only thing safer than a Mendy save is the joke that says a keeper is never out of jokes.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Saudi Pro League players are set to feature in the AFCON final?

Yassine Bono (Morocco) for the Saudi Pro League, with Sadio Mane and Edouard Mendy playing for Senegal; Kalidou Koulibaly is suspended for the final.

Why is Koulibaly not present in the final?

He received a second yellow card against Egypt in the semi-final.

When and where is the final taking place?

Sunday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.