What's happened
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 begins in Morocco on December 21, with 24 teams competing across six cities. Morocco, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Senegal, and Algeria are among the favorites. The final is scheduled for January 18 at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. All matches are broadcast free-to-air in the UK on Channel 4.
What's behind the headline?
The 2025 AFCON in Morocco highlights the shifting landscape of African football, with Morocco's successful hosting demonstrating the continent's growing capacity for major tournaments. The relocation from Guinea underscores the importance of infrastructure readiness, which was a key factor in the decision. Morocco's team, featuring European-based stars like Achraf Hakimi and others, is expected to perform strongly, but the tournament's outcome remains uncertain due to the competitive nature of the participating teams. The scheduling over the festive season may boost viewership, especially in Europe, where matches are broadcast free-to-air in the UK. This tournament also serves as a platform for emerging African talent and a showcase of the continent's footballing strength. The political and economic implications of hosting such a major event are significant for Morocco, potentially boosting tourism and national pride, but also raising questions about resource allocation amid domestic issues. Overall, AFCON 2025 will likely influence future hosting decisions and the development of African football infrastructure, with Morocco positioning itself as a key player in continental sports hosting.
What the papers say
The New Arab emphasizes Morocco's role as a resilient host, highlighting the country's preparations and the scrutiny it faces. The Scotsman provides context on the tournament's scheduling, its historical significance, and the shift from Guinea to Morocco, noting the logistical challenges and broadcasting arrangements. Al Jazeera focuses on the tournament's format, venues, and the opening match, emphasizing Morocco's strategic choice as host and the tournament's broader regional impact. Contrasting perspectives reveal a focus on Morocco's logistical success versus concerns about domestic priorities and infrastructure readiness, illustrating the complex dynamics behind hosting AFCON 2025.
How we got here
Originally scheduled to be held in Guinea, the 2025 AFCON was relocated to Morocco after Guinea was stripped of hosting rights in September 2022 due to infrastructure issues. The tournament is held every two years, with the 2025 edition featuring 24 teams divided into six groups. It is the first AFCON to take place over the Christmas and New Year period, following a rescheduling caused by the expansion of the FIFA Club World Cup and other logistical adjustments. Morocco was chosen as the host nation, with nine stadiums across six cities, after CAF confirmed the change in October 2022.
Go deeper
Common question
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What is the significance of AFCON 2025 in Morocco?
AFCON 2025 marks a historic moment for African football, being the first tournament held over the Christmas period and hosted by Morocco after a major relocation from Guinea. This event not only showcases top African talent but also highlights Morocco's growing role as a key sports hub. Curious about the tournament's impact, the favorite teams, and how to watch? Keep reading for all the essential details about AFCON 2025.
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What Are the Key Highlights of AFCON 2025?
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 has kicked off in Morocco, marking a significant event in African football. With 24 teams competing across six cities, fans are eager to know what makes this tournament special. From standout teams to broadcasting details, here’s everything you need to know about AFCON 2025 and why it’s a must-watch event.
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Morocco, officially the Kingdom of Morocco, is a country located in the Maghreb region of North Africa. It overlooks the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, with land borders with Algeria to the east and Western Sahara to th
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Guinea, officially the Republic of Guinea, is a west-coastal country in West Africa. Formerly known as French Guinea, the modern country is sometimes referred to as Guinea-Conakry to distinguish it from other countries with "Guinea" in the name and the ep
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Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula.
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The CAF Africa Cup of Nations, officially CAN, also referred to as AFCON, or Total Africa Cup of Nations after its headline sponsor, is the main international men's association football competition in Africa.