The stage is set for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco as the draw has been made in Rabat this evening.
Host nation Morocco, hosting the AFCON for the first time since 1988, are looking to leverage their home advantage. They will open the tournament in Group A, facing tough opponents in Mali, Zambia, and Comoros.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are determined to claim their fourth continental crown. Drawn in Group C, Nigeria will battle Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in the group stages, hoping to avenge their narrow loss in the 2023 final against Côte d’Ivoire.
Egypt who have won the most AFCON trophies will lock horns with the Bafana Bafana of South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe in Group B
Reigning champions Côte d’Ivoire, who defeated Nigeria in the 2023 final, have been drawn into a thrilling Group F alongside Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique. Both Côte d’Ivoire and Cameroon are expected to progress from this group, but Gabon and Mozambique could spring surprises.
Former Ghana Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah will lead Sudan in Group E, where they face a challenging path against Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea. Sudan, known for their AFCON history, will aim to upset the odds under Appiah’s leadership.
Botswana, making only their second AFCON appearance after their debut in 2012, find themselves in Group D alongside 2021 champions Senegal, DR Congo, and Benin. Facing the likes of Senegal will test Botswana’s resolve as they seek to make a mark on the continental stage.
The 2025 AFCON promises to be a festival of football, showcasing Africa’s finest talents. This year’s AFCON is scheduled to kick off on December 21, 2025, and conclude on January 18, 2026. The competition will be played in 9 stadiums.
Teams will no longer play two matches in the same day on the same pitch. There will be 24 base camps/training grounds (one per team).
