The countdown has begun for the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations. Get ready for a thrilling tournament as the continent’s best footballing nations gather in Morocco. This edition, however, comes with a unique twist. It will be the first-ever AFCON played over the Christmas and New Year period, creating a festival of football like no other. From defending champions Ivory Coast to the ambitious hosts, 24 teams will battle for the ultimate prize in African football. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the key players and top contenders to the potential dark horses ready to cause an upset.

AFCON 2025: A Unique Winter Tournament in Morocco

For the second time in its history, Morocco will host the Africa Cup of Nations, with the first time being back in 1988. The tournament is scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. This is a significant shift from the typical June-July window. Consequently, this change was made to avoid a clash with FIFA’s expanded 32-team Club World Cup.

The opening match will feature the host nation, Morocco, taking on Comoros on December 21, 2025. Furthermore, the competition will unfold across six vibrant Moroccan cities:

• Rabat
• Casablanca
• Agadir
• Marrakech
• Fes
• Tangier

This winter schedule promises a fresh and exciting dynamic for Africa’s most prestigious football tournament. Fans can find the full tournament schedule on the official CAF website.

The Heavyweights: Who Are the Favourites to Win?

Several nations enter the tournament with high expectations. Their squads are packed with talent playing at the highest levels of world football. Therefore, they are considered the top contenders to lift the trophy.

Morocco (The Hosts)

The Atlas Lions are arguably the team to beat. Playing on home soil provides a massive advantage. In addition, their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup has filled the team with confidence. With stars like Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz leading the charge, Morocco has the quality and tactical discipline to go all the way.

Senegal & Egypt

Senegal, the 2021 champions, remains a powerhouse. Their squad is balanced and features world-class talent like Sadio Mané and Edouard Mendy. They have the experience and skill to mount a formidable title defence. Meanwhile, Egypt, the record seven-time champions, is desperate to reclaim its crown. Led by the phenomenal Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs possess an attack that can dismantle any defence on the continent.

Nigeria & Algeria

Nigeria’s Super Eagles boast one of the most exciting attacking forces in the tournament. With Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface, their firepower is undeniable. As finalists in the previous edition, they will be determined to go one step further. Algeria, the 2019 champions, is also a major threat. A blend of seasoned veterans like Riyad Mahrez and emerging talents makes them a balanced and dangerous opponent.

The Dark Horses: Can an Underdog Cause an Upset?

While the favourites grab the headlines, AFCON is famous for its surprises. Several teams have the potential to disrupt the established order and make a deep run in the tournament.

• South Africa: Bafana Bafana were a surprise package in the last edition, finishing third. Their tactical organisation and team spirit make them a difficult team to play against.
• Mali: Consistently a tough competitor, Mali has a squad full of quality. They frequently challenge the top teams and could finally break through to the latter stages.
• DR Congo: After reaching the semi-finals in the previous tournament, DR Congo proved they can compete with the best. They are a resilient side with the ability to spring a surprise.
• Cameroon: You can never count out the Indomitable Lions. With five AFCON titles to their name, they possess a “major tournament DNA” and can rise to the occasion when it matters most.

Stars Across the Continent: Key Players to Watch

Attackers

• Victor Osimhen (Nigeria): A prolific goalscorer known for his power and clinical finishing.
• Mohamed Salah (Egypt): One of the world’s best forwards, capable of changing a game in an instant.
• Sadio Mané (Senegal): A dynamic and experienced leader for the defending champions.
• Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon): The veteran striker remains a lethal threat in front of goal.

Midfielders & Defenders

• Achraf Hakimi (Morocco): A world-class full-back whose attacking runs are crucial for the hosts.
• Brahim Díaz (Morocco): The creative spark in the midfield for the Atlas Lions.
• Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast): A powerful box-to-box midfielder for the defending champions.
• Ronwen Williams (South Africa): An exceptional goalkeeper whose penalty-saving heroics were a highlight of the last tournament.

The Full Roster: Newcomers and Returning Nations

The road to Morocco was hard-fought, with 24 teams ultimately securing their spot. Host nation Morocco qualified automatically. The tournament will feature familiar faces as well as teams making a welcome return. For insights into the host nation’s preparations, check out their official channels on the Morocco Football Federation website.

Botswana’s qualification, for only the second time in its history, is a fantastic achievement. Additionally, nations like Comoros, Gabon, and Zimbabwe are back after missing the previous edition, adding more competitive depth to the tournament.

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Conclusion: An Unforgettable African Football Fiesta Awaits

AFCON 2025 in Morocco is shaping up to be an unmissable event. The unique winter schedule, combined with the passion of the host nation, sets the stage for a spectacular tournament. While favourites like Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, and Egypt have their eyes on the prize, the unpredictable nature of AFCON means a surprise winner could emerge. With a dazzling array of stars on display and compelling storylines from every qualified nation, the world will be watching as the next champion of Africa is crowned.