The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will kick off in Morocco on December 21, 2025, with the nation striving to host a spectacular event that reflects its ambitions as a football powerhouse and co-host for the 2030 World Cup. The tournament will take place across nine venues in six cities, showcasing significant investment in sports infrastructure, including the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, which can accommodate 69,500 spectators and will host the final on January 18, 2026.
Twenty-four teams will compete, divided into six groups. Morocco is in Group A with Mali, Zambia, and Comoros, while defending champions Ivory Coast plays in Group F alongside Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique. Key football nations such as Egypt, Nigeria, and Senegal will also be in the hunt for the continental title. Morocco comes into the tournament with high expectations, bolstered by a strong performance in the 2022 World Cup, where it reached the semi-finals. Star player Achraf Hakimi is anticipated to play a pivotal role.
The tournament’s scheduling has been strategically altered to avoid conflict with FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup, making this the first AFCON held during the Christmas and New Year period. This change demonstrates Morocco’s commitment to hosting a world-class event that adheres to international football timelines. As the host, Morocco is under pressure to perform well, leveraging its home advantage to establish itself as a formidable force in African football. The opening match on December 21 will set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament.
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