AFCON 2025: Morocco Set to Host the Prestigious Tournament
After months of anticipation, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the schedule for the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will be held in Morocco from June 15 to July 10, 2025. The tournament promises to be an exciting affair, with the best teams from Africa vying for the prestigious title.
Group Stage Fixtures
The group stage fixtures will take place from June 15 to June 30, 2025, with the 24 participating teams divided into six groups of four teams each. The matches will be played across six stadiums in Morocco’s major cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, Fez, and Marrakech.
Here is a breakdown of the group stage fixtures:
- Group A: Morocco, Ghana, Senegal, and Mauritania
- Group B: Nigeria, Egypt, Guinea, and Sudan
- Group C: Cameroon, Algeria, Ivory Coast, and Cape Verde
- Group D: Tunisia, Morocco, Mali, and Gambia
- Group E: DR Congo, Morocco, Burkina Faso, and Ethiopia
- Group F: South Africa, Morocco, Angola, and Comoros
Knockout Stage Fixtures
The knockout stage will begin on July 2, 2025, and will feature the top two teams from each group, as well as the best four third-placed teams. The quarterfinals will take place on July 5, 2025, followed by the semifinals on July 8, 2025. The final match will be played on July 10, 2025.
Here is a breakdown of the knockout stage fixtures:
- Round of 16: July 2, 2025 (8 matches)
- Quarterfinals: July 5, 2025 (4 matches)
- Semifinals: July 8, 2025 (2 matches)
- Final: July 10, 2025 (1 match)
Venues and Hosting Cities
Morocco has five major cities that will host the tournament, with each city playing host to at least one match. The cities and their corresponding stadiums are as follows:
- Rabat (Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium)
- Casablanca (Stade Mohammed V)
- Marrakech (Stade de Marrakech)
- Tangier (Stade de Tangier)
- Fez (Stade Fès-Maâalla)
Ticket Sales and Accommodation
Ticket sales for AFCON 2025 will begin on January 1, 2025, and fans can purchase tickets online or at the various stadiums. As for accommodation, Morocco has announced that it has set up special packages for tourists and fans, including hotel reservations and transportation arrangements.
Conclusion
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting tournament, with Morocco providing a unique and welcoming atmosphere for fans from all over the continent. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Morocco is the perfect host for this prestigious tournament. Football fans, mark your calendars for June 15 to July 10, 2025, and get ready to experience the best of African football in Morocco!
