By: Kwame Bediako
The 2025 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) takes place in Morocco, marking an unprecedented scheduling during Christmas and New Year.
The tournament kicks off on December 21 with host Morocco facing Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. This festive timing promises fans a holiday period filled with thrilling football drama over nearly a month.
Groups Set for Intense Battles
Twenty-four teams have been divided into six groups, setting up fascinating clashes across the continent. Group A features Morocco alongside Mali, Zambia, and Comoros, while Group F includes a heavyweight duel between defending champions Ivory Coast and five-time winners Cameroon.
Additionally, fierce contests like Senegal vs DR Congo in Group D and Egypt’s showdown with South Africa in Group B add to the competitive atmosphere.
Fan-Centric Scheduling Amplifies Excitement
AFCON 2025’s group stage offers spectators multiple matches daily, with four games scheduled every day between late morning and evening GMT.
This packed schedule ensures continuous action, culminating in the group phase by December 31. The knockout rounds then begin on January 3, leading to an eagerly awaited final on January 18 to crown Africa’s best football nation.
Modernized Stadiums Showcase Morocco’s Commitment
Morocco has invested heavily in infrastructure for this tournament, refurbishing nine stadiums in six cities, including four venues in Rabat alone. The Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, with a capacity of nearly 70,000 spectators, will host the opening match and the final.
These state-of-the-art facilities highlight Morocco’s ambition on the world stage as they prepare to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Player Availability Sparks Controversy
The timing of AFCON during the European club season has reignited debates over player release protocols. FIFA set the mandatory player release date to December 15, a week later than usual, creating tension between clubs and national teams.
High-profile stars like Manchester United’s Bryan Mbeumo will miss Premier League matches to represent their countries, underscoring the ongoing balancing act between club and country commitments.
Morocco and Close Challengers Eye the Trophy
Morocco enters AFCON 2025 as the clear favorite, riding an unprecedented 18-match winning streak and boasting a formidable goal difference.
Yet, the challenge from reigning champions Senegal, along with strong squads from Egypt, Algeria, and Ivory Coast, ensures the path to the trophy will be fiercely contested.
These teams come into the competition with confidence, having remained unbeaten during recent World Cup qualifiers.
A Tournament Poised for Surprises and Stories
Despite favorite status for Morocco, the diversity of recent winners underlines Afcon’s unpredictable nature. DR Congo, fresh from impressive World Cup playoff victories, represents a potential dark horse.
With seven different teams winning the past eight tournaments, fans can anticipate unexpected twists, breakout stars, and memorable moments as Africa’s football elite battle for continental supremacy in Morocco.
