AFCON 2025: FULL TEAMS, GROUPS, AND TOURNAMENT START DATE

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The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 is set to captivate football fans across the continent and beyond as Africa’s biggest football tournament returns with renewed excitement. Hosted by Morocco, the competition will officially kick off with its opening match on 22 December 2025, running through to the final on 18 January 2026.

This edition marks another milestone in African football, bringing together 24 national teams competing for continental glory across several host cities in Morocco. With world-class stadiums, passionate fans, and star-studded squads, AFCON 2025 promises a thrilling month of football.

TOURNAMENT FORMAT

The 24 teams are divided into six groups of four teams each. After the group stage, the top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the Round of 16. From there, the tournament progresses through the knockout rounds to the final.

GROUP A

Morocco (Hosts)

Mali

Zambia

Comoros


Group A features the host nation Morocco, who will open the tournament under huge expectations. Mali and Zambia bring physical strength and experience, while Comoros will be aiming to surprise bigger opponents.

GROUP B

Egypt

South Africa

Angola

Zimbabwe


Egypt, Africa’s most successful AFCON nation, headline Group B. South Africa and Angola offer strong competition, while Zimbabwe will be pushing to make a deep run.

GROUP C

Nigeria

Tunisia

Uganda

Tanzania


This group blends West, North, and East African football styles. Nigeria enters with high hopes, Tunisia brings tactical discipline, and Uganda and Tanzania will look to upset the balance.

GROUP D

Senegal

DR Congo

Benin

Botswana


Group D promises intensity, with Senegal and DR Congo seen as favorites. Benin and Botswana, however, are capable of producing unexpected results.

GROUP E

Algeria

Burkina Faso

Equatorial Guinea

Sudan


Algeria leads a competitive group featuring Burkina Faso’s resilience, Equatorial Guinea’s flair, and Sudan’s fighting spirit.

GROUP F

Ivory Coast (Defending Champions)

Cameroon

Gabon

Mozambique


Group F is one of the toughest. Defending champions Ivory Coast face strong challenges from Cameroon and Gabon, while Mozambique will be eager to prove their quality.

WHAT TO Expect

AFCON 2025 is expected to deliver dramatic moments, intense rivalries, and unforgettable performances. With many players coming from top European leagues, the level of football is set to be exceptionally high. Morocco’s hosting adds cultural richness and modern infrastructure to the tournament experience.

As the opening match kicks off on 22 December 2025, Africa will once again unite through football, celebrating talent, pride, and competition at the highest level.



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