The stage is set. From December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, Morocco will be at the center of the African football universe as it hosts the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With less than a year to go, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled the official schedule for what promises to be a month of electrifying competition.
Opening match drama: Lions of the Atlas to kick things off
The excitement kicks off on December 21, with the host nation Morocco facing Comoros at Rabat’s iconic Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The Atlas Lions, backed by an entire nation of fervent supporters, are one of the top contenders for the title. However, the road to glory won’t be easy. Heavyweights like defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and five-time winners Cameroon are ready to mount serious challenges.
Clash of giants right from the group stage
Fans won’t have to wait long for high-stakes battles. One of the most anticipated early encounters will see Côte d’Ivoire take on Cameroon—a showdown that’s sure to set the tone for the tournament. Other must-watch matches include Nigeria vs. Tunisia, Egypt vs. South Africa, and Senegal vs. DR Congo.
Morocco’s stadiums ready to shine
The tournament will be spread across six cities and nine world-class stadiums. From Casablanca to Tangier, the host venues are primed to offer a vibrant mix of football passion and cultural pride. The final, set for January 18, 2026, in Rabat, is expected to be an unforgettable spectacle.
2025 Africa Cup of Nations schedule highlights
Group stage fixtures
- December 21, 2025
Morocco vs. Comoros (Group A) – Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat - December 22, 2025
Mali vs. Zambia (Group A), Egypt vs. Zimbabwe (Group B), South Africa vs. Angola (Group B) - December 23, 2025
Nigeria vs. Tanzania (Group C), Tunisia vs. Uganda (Group C), Senegal vs. Botswana (Group D), DR Congo vs. Benin (Group D) - December 24, 2025
Algeria vs. Sudan (Group E), Burkina Faso vs. Equatorial Guinea (Group E), Côte d’Ivoire vs. Mozambique (Group F), Cameroon vs. Gabon (Group F)
The tournament intensifies with key matchups scheduled through the group stage until December 31, 2025.
Knockout stages
- Round of 16: January 3–6, 2026
- Quarterfinals: January 9–10, 2026
- Semifinals: January 14, 2026
- Third Place Playoff: January 17, 2026
- Final: January 18, 2026 – Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat
A celebration of African excellence
The 2025 AFCON is shaping up to be a landmark event. Morocco, with its state-of-the-art infrastructure and football-crazed fans, is ready to deliver an unforgettable tournament. For one month, Africa’s top talents will battle for the coveted title, as millions watch from across the continent and beyond.
The countdown has begun—will Morocco rise to the challenge and claim glory on home soil, or will one of the giants of African football assert their dominance once again? Let the games begin!
