The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage draw, held in Rabat on Monday, has set the stage for a thrilling tournament, with some highly anticipated matchups in the pipeline. South Africa will face Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, while Nigeria, spearheaded by Ademola Lookman, will take on Tunisia. The tournament kicks off on December 21, with hosts Morocco facing the surprise package Comoros. Reigning champions Ivory Coast will meet five-time winners Cameroon, while Sudan, amid its civil unrest, will play against Algeria. A standout match between Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo is expected to captivate fans in the group stage.
Salah’s Quest for AFCON Glory
Despite enjoying great success with Liverpool, Mohamed Salah has yet to claim an AFCON title. His closest attempts came in 2017 and 2022, where he finished as a runner-up. This year, Egypt, the seven-time champions, are determined to go one step further. In Group B, they will face South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe.
“We’ve come close, but this year feels like our time. Egypt is ready to claim the title,” Salah remarked after the draw.
Nigeria’s Strong Forward Lineup
Nigeria, who were runners-up to Ivory Coast last year, boasts prolific forwards like Ademola Lookman, the African Footballer of the Year, and Victor Osimhen. Tunisia, making their 17th consecutive AFCON appearance, joins Nigeria in Group C, along with Uganda and Tanzania.
“With the squad we have, I believe we can win it all. We’re prepared for the challenge,” Lookman said ahead of the tournament.
Morocco’s Home Advantage and Hopes
Morocco, the host nation, will look to take advantage of their home soil and powerful squad featuring Achraf Hakimi of PSG. Their aim is to become the fourth host nation in the 21st century to win the AFCON. They will open the tournament against Comoros in Group A.
“Hosting AFCON is a huge honor, and we are determined to make our country proud by lifting the trophy,” said Hakimi.
Ivory Coast’s Strong Challenge
Ivory Coast, the defending champions, will feature the talented Amad Diallo, who recently scored a hat-trick for Manchester United. Ivory Coast will face Gabon and Mozambique in Group F, and will look to build on their strong performance in the 2024 AFCON.
“We’ve set the bar high, and now it’s about maintaining our level. We want to defend our title,” said Diallo ahead of the tournament.
CAF President’s Optimism for Morocco 2025
CAF President Patrick Motsepe expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament, noting, “The AFCON in Morocco is set to be the most successful yet. Ivory Coast set a high bar last year, and we are determined to surpass it.” He further assured that the delay in the tournament’s schedule would not affect the quality of the competition, despite it being initially postponed to avoid a clash with the FIFA Club World Cup.
“We firmly believe that the AFCON will be a resounding success. Morocco possesses the necessary infrastructure and enthusiasm to host a truly memorable tournament,” said Motsepe.
AFCON 2025: A Stepping Stone for Morocco’s 2030 World Cup Bid
The AFCON in Morocco is viewed as a crucial step for the country’s preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. The tournament is expected to be a showcase for the host nation’s organizational capabilities and its footballing talent.
The AFCON 2025 Group Stage Draw
- Group A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros
- Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe
- Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania
- Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana
- Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan
- Group F: Ivory Coast (Holders), Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique
What to Expect in Morocco 2025
With the 2025 AFCON drawing ever closer, excitement is building for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament. As the teams begin their preparations, fans around Africa and the world are eagerly awaiting the spectacle that will unfold in Morocco.
“This will be a tournament to remember,” said Salah as the group stage draw concluded.