The stage is set for the 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco. Following the conclusion of the qualifiers, the final list of 24 nations that will compete in this prestigious tournament has been confirmed.
A New Chapter for African Football
Returning to Morocco for the first time since 1988, AFCON 2025 promises to be a showcase of the continent’s top footballing talent. The tournament has grown significantly since Morocco’s last hosting, expanding from just eight teams to a record-breaking 24 nations, reflecting the rapid development of African football.
Nations Qualified for AFCON 2025
Here is the full list of qualified teams:
- Hosts: Morocco
- Others: Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Mali, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
This lineup features a mix of perennial powerhouses and emerging teams, creating a competitive and diverse tournament atmosphere.
Key Qualifiers and Surprises
- Botswana secured a dramatic qualification after a 1-1 draw with Egypt, marking their return to AFCON for the first time since 2012.
- Zimbabwe ended a long drought, returning to the tournament after missing out since 2021.
- Comoros proved their resilience, earning a place after their impressive 2021 AFCON debut.
- Benin, Uganda, and Sudan also make noteworthy comebacks, further enriching the tournament’s diversity.
Top Contenders
All of Africa’s top 10 FIFA-ranked nations will participate, including defending champions Ivory Coast, Senegal, Morocco, Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria. Former winners such as Cameroon, DR Congo, and Tunisia add to the tournament’s prestige.
Rising Teams to Watch
Emerging nations like Angola, Mozambique, and Equatorial Guinea are expected to bring fresh energy to the competition, while smaller nations such as Comoros, Botswana, and Sudan will represent the hopes of underdogs on the continental stage.
Host Nation: Morocco’s Role
As hosts, Morocco is automatically qualified and eager to leverage its growing reputation as a global football powerhouse. After becoming the first African nation to reach the FIFA World Cup semi-finals in 2022, the Atlas Lions aim to add AFCON glory to their achievements.
Venues and Host Cities
Morocco is preparing world-class facilities for the tournament, with venues expected to include:
- Mohammed V Stadium (Casablanca)
- Moulay Abdellah Stadium (Rabat)
- Ibn Batouta Stadium (Tangier)
- Adrar Stadium (Agadir)
- Marrakesh Stadium (Marrakesh)
- Fez Stadium (Fez)
These stadiums, some undergoing expansions, will provide a variety of settings, from historic to modern, ensuring a vibrant fan experience.
Key Dates
- Tournament Start: December 21, 2025
- Final Match: January 18, 2026
Milestones
The qualifiers saw 48 nations divided into 12 groups, with the top two from each group securing a spot. Notable absentees like Ghana and Guinea add to the drama as new teams step into the spotlight.
Morocco’s Growing Football Legacy
Morocco’s hosting of AFCON 2025 solidifies its position as a hub for African football. With a track record of hosting prestigious tournaments like the FIFA Club World Cup (2023) and the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (2022), Morocco is prepared to deliver a memorable and impactful AFCON.
Looking Ahead
The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 represents more than just a football competition; it is a celebration of African talent, unity, and progress. With seasoned teams and rising stars set to clash on the biggest stage, this edition promises to be one for the history books.
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Source: CAFonline
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