The wait is over, and with high anticipation, the fate of the 24 teams participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was revealed. Morocco, as the host country, has stirred even more excitement among its fans, with Africa’s top football stars getting ready to shine in this prestigious tournament, which will take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Don’t miss a single moment of this amazing event! You can watch the whole AFCON 2025 tournament on beIN SPORTS USA.

Groups and Stars Ready to Shine

The draw, held at the Mohamed V National Theatre in Rabat, determined the six groups that will feature top-level teams. Morocco, led by Achraf Hakimi, will share Group A with Mali, Zambia, and Comoros. The Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium will be the stage for this exciting opening match when the hosts face Comoros on December 21. No doubt, the "Atlas Lions" will look to take advantage of their home advantage to break a 49-year drought without winning the title.

Group B promises to be one of the most competitive, with Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, facing off against South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe. This group stands out with big players and an impressive history, especially with Egypt, the country with the most titles in the tournament’s history. Meanwhile, in Group C, Nigeria will battle against Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in a clash of giants that will remind us of the 2023 final when Nigeria lost to Ivory Coast.

Fans will also keep their eyes on Group D, where the 2021 champions, Senegal, will go head-to-head with teams like Democratic Republic of the Congo, Benin, and Botswana. But let’s not forget Ivory Coast, which finds itself in Group F, where it will face off against Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique. With players like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon) and Vincent Aboubakar (Cameroon), this group promises to be packed with top-quality matches and excitement.

The Stadiums and Cities of the Tournament

Matches will be held in six iconic cities across Morocco, adding a special touch to the competition. Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier, and Fez will be the venues for the most intense clashes in African football. Each stadium will offer a unique atmosphere, fueled by the passion of the fans and their love for the game.

The format of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations allows the top two teams from each group to automatically advance to the knockout phase. Additionally, the four best third-placed teams will also have a chance to continue fighting for the title. The system ensures excitement until the very last moment, as every match will be crucial for advancing to the Round of 16.

This edition of the AFCON will be a sports spectacle that will unite the whole continent. Football stars like Salah, Mané, Mahrez, and Hakimi will be present to show why African football is on the rise. However, the tournament also has a deep cultural and social meaning, as it represents a symbol of unity for Africa, just as CAF President Patrice Motsepe mentioned during the draw.

The Defending Champions’ Challenge

Ivory Coast, the current champions after their 2023 victory, will look to defend their title in a tough group. The team, coached by Jérôme Boateng, will face high-level teams like Cameroon and Gabon, promising thrilling and intense clashes.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will be more than just a football tournament: it will be a celebration of culture, talent, and passion from Africa. With renowned teams, vibrant stadiums, and world-class players, this edition promises to leave a mark in the memory of every football fan. Don’t forget you can follow the whole AFCON 2025 tournament on beIN SPORTS USA! The answer to the question of who will be crowned champions will come on January 18, 2026, but in the meantime, the excitement grows with every draw, every match, and every step toward glory.