All is set in Morocco for the 35th edition of the AFCON, as the North Africans aim to win it for just the second time. This is expected to be a classic tournament with high hopes, innovation, and another wave of anticipation that has never been experienced on the continent before.
The last edition, staged in Cote d’Ivoire, stood out for dramatic scenes, as the hosts, on the brink of a group stage exit, went on to win the continent’s biggest prize. The Elephants will arrive with a lot of confidence, as they aim to become just the fourth side to defend the crown. On the other hand, a disjointed Nigeria under new leadership and management will be hoping for some luck in North Africa.
Across the continent, expectations are rising. Traditional heavyweights are seeking redemption after recent disappointments, while emerging forces sense an opportunity to write their own chapter in AFCON history.
Dates & Participating Countries
The 2025 AFCON will take place from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, with Morocco hosting the continent’s premier football tournament for the second time in its history.
Just like in the last edition, we have 24 Qualified Teams.
Host stadiums and cities
Rabat
Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex – 69,500 seats
Al Barid Stadium – 18,000 seats
Olympic Annex Stadium (Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex) – 21,000 seats
Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex – 22,000 seats
Casablanca
Mohammed V Sports Complex – 45,000 seats
Agadir
Agadir Grand Stadium – 41,144 seats
Marrakech
Marrakech Grand Stadium – 41,245 seats
Fès
Fès Sports Complex – 35,468 seats
Tangier
Tangier Grand Stadium – 75,600 seats
Match Schedule
The 2025 AFCON holds a symbolic place in the football calendar. It is important to note that this will be the first edition of the Africa Cup of Nations to be staged in winter, with the opening match scheduled for Sunday, 21 December 2025, and the final set to be played on 18 January 2026.
To view the full match schedule of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, please click here.
The tournament’s mascot is Assad, inspired by the Atlas Lion, a symbol of Morocco. Assad embodies strength, pride, and cultural authenticity, uniting supporters across Africa. Meanwhile, the tournament’s ball – ITRI – will make its official debut on 21 December 2025, during the opening match between Morocco and Comoros.
Let the games begin!
