The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially confirmed the dates for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The continent’s biggest football tournament will be held in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
Tournament Schedule
The competition, which gathers Africa’s top 24 national teams, will kick off just before the year-end holidays and conclude in the new year. The schedule ensures that the final stages of the tournament align with global football calendars while taking into account Morocco’s climate conditions during winter.
Why Morocco?
This will be the second time Morocco hosts AFCON, with the last edition held in the country back in 1988. CAF praised Morocco’s infrastructure, world-class stadiums, and organizational capacity, pointing to its ability to deliver a tournament of international standard.
What to Expect
- 24 Teams Competing: National teams from across the continent will battle for the crown of African champions.
- Star Power: Expect some of the biggest names in world football—many playing in Europe’s elite leagues—to return home to represent their nations.
- Local Excitement: Morocco’s cities, including Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakesh, are preparing for an influx of fans, with cultural festivals and fan zones planned alongside the matches.
Reactions Across Africa
- Fans: The December-to-January timeline has sparked excitement, with many saying it will add festive energy to the tournament.
- Players & Clubs: Some European clubs have already raised concerns over losing key players mid-season, but CAF insists the timing was necessary to balance climate and logistics.
- Analysts: The decision reinforces Morocco’s growing reputation as a powerhouse of African sports infrastructure.
Why It Matters
AFCON remains Africa’s most prestigious football competition, a stage where legends are made and national pride takes center stage. With Morocco as host and the tournament set for the festive season, AFCON 2025 promises to be one of the most memorable editions in history.
