by The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is the continent’s premier football tournament, showcasing the best of African football talent. The 2025 edition, AFCON 2025, is set to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
This marks the second time Morocco has hosted the event, following its successful hosting in 1988. The tournament will feature 24 teams competing for the coveted title, with Ivory Coast entering as the defending champions after their victory in 2023.
AFCON 2025: The Road to Morocco
Qualification Process
The journey to AFCON 2025 began with a preliminary round in March 2024, followed by a group stage that concluded in November 2024. Teams battled it out across various matchdays to secure their spots in the finals. Notable results from Matchday 6 included Morocco’s impressive 7-0 victory over Lesotho and Algeria’s 5-1 win against Liberia.
Teams and Draw
The draw for AFCON 2025 took place on January 27, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco. The 24 qualified teams were divided into four pots for the draw, ensuring a balanced competition. Key teams include Morocco as the host nation, reigning champions Ivory Coast, and other powerhouses like Egypt and Cameroon. The draw determined the group stage matchups, setting the stage for an exciting tournament.
AFCON 2025: Group Stage Fixtures
Knockout Stage Overview
The knockout stage will feature the top two teams from each group, along with the three best third-place teams. The round of 16 will see thrilling matchups, such as Group D winners facing the third-place team from Group B/E/F, and Group A winners against the third-place team from Group C/D/E.
Conclusion
AFCON 2025 promises to be an electrifying event, with Morocco’s rich football culture and state-of-the-art infrastructure providing an ideal backdrop for this prestigious tournament. As fans eagerly await the opening match on December 21, 2025, the anticipation is palpable. With world-class players and intense competition expected, AFCON 2025 is set to be a memorable celebration of African football.
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