AFCON 2025: Morocco Hosts Africa's Best in Historic Tournament

Thursday, 21 November, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

Rabat, Morocco — The stage is set for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as 24 nations, including host Morocco, gear up to compete in Africa’s premier football competition. The tournament, scheduled to run from January 13 to February 11, 2025, promises a showcase of the continent’s finest football talent and thrilling rivalries.

This edition will mark a historic return to North Africa as Morocco hosts the tournament for the first time since 1988, capitalizing on its rising football prowess and well-established infrastructure, including modern stadiums in Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, and Tangier.

Favourites and Teams to Watch

2019 champions Senegal, spearheaded by their talismanic captain Sadio Mané, are among the favourites. Fresh off their stellar performances in recent years, the Teranga Lions are hungry for an extra title.

Morocco, the host nation, enters with high expectations following their historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a first for any African team. With stars like Hakim Ziyech and Achraf Hakimi, Morocco aims to lift the trophy on home soil and cement their status as a continental powerhouse.

Traditional heavyweights Nigeria, Egypt, and defending champions Ivory Coast are also contenders, boasting squads brimming with European-based talent. Meanwhile, South Africa, returning to AFCON after a resurgence in form, is a team to watch for their mix of youth and experience.

Surprise qualifiers like Comoros, participating in only their second AFCON, and Botswana, making their first appearance since 2012, add an exciting unpredictability to the tournament.

Big Names Missing Out

While the tournament features a star-studded lineup, some notable teams will be absent. Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion, failed to qualify for the first time since 2004, leaving fans stunned. Similarly, DR Congo, a two-time winner, narrowly missed out, highlighting the competitive nature of the qualifiers.

Other shock omissions include Togo, once semifinalists in 2013, and Guinea, who have been regulars in recent editions. Their absence underscores the rising standards of African football, with smaller nations stepping up to the challenge.

Historical Milestones and Rising Stars

The 2025 AFCON will see Zambia, winners in 2012, seeking to replicate their Cinderella story. Uganda returns after missing the last two editions, hoping to relive the glory of their 1978 final appearance.

Burkina Faso, semifinalists in 2017, have become a consistent threat and could emerge as dark horses. Meanwhile, Algeria, the 2019 champions, are determined to reclaim their place at the top under coach Djamel Belmadi.

Young talents such as Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Ibrahim Adel (Egypt), and Lamine Camara (Senegal) are poised to shine, representing the future of African football on the global stage.

Tournament Format and Locations

The 24 teams will be divided into six groups of four, with matches spread across Morocco’s iconic venues. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage.

The final, set for February 11 in Rabat, promises to be a spectacle, drawing millions of viewers worldwide.

Morocco’s Moment in the Spotlight

Hosting AFCON 2025 is a testament to Morocco’s growing influence in African football. The country has invested heavily in sports infrastructure and development, earning praise from CAF for its organizational capability.

With a blend of established giants, emerging nations, and passionate fans, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations promises to be a thrilling celebration of African football. As the countdown begins, all eyes turn to Morocco, where legends will be made, dreams fulfilled, and history written.