AFCON 2025: The Ultimate Fan Guide – Schedule, Teams, Tickets, Broadcast & Must-Know Tips

Updated: November 15, 2025 | Your Complete Resource for Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco

The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 is set to be the biggest football event on the continent in a generation. Hosted by Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, this 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations brings together 24 of Africa’s fiercest national teams, 52 electrifying matches, and a historic final under the lights at Rabat’s Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah.

With a groundbreaking December–January schedule, a seamless digital fan experience via the official Yalla App, and global broadcast deals with giants like SuperSport and beIN SPORTS, AFCON 2025 is not just a tournament — it’s a continental celebration that the world will be watching.

⏰ Why Is AFCON 2025 in December? A Game-Changing Decision

For the first time since 2013, the Africa Cup of Nations is being held in December and January instead of the traditional June–July window.

This strategic shift was made to avoid clashes with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which also takes place in mid-year. It also eases the burden on African stars playing in Europe’s top leagues — including the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and Ligue 1 — giving them more rest and reducing injury risks.

More importantly, this timing means fans across Europe, North America, and Asia can watch matches during prime evening hours — making AFCON 2025 more accessible than ever before.

💡 Key Benefit: If you’re in the UK, USA, or Australia, you can enjoy live AFCON action without waking up at 3 a.m. — a first for the tournament.

📍 Where Is AFCON 2025 Being Held? All Six Host Cities in Morocco

Morocco, a nation with deep football roots and world-class infrastructure, will host AFCON 2025 across six vibrant cities — each bringing its own energy, culture, and passion for the game.

Rabat — The political capital and host of the opening match and the final at the stunning Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah.
Casablanca — Home to the iconic Stade Mohammed V, where giants will clash in group stage showdowns and knockout drama.
Marrakech — A tourist hotspot with a roaring atmosphere, hosting quarter-finals and high-stakes Round of 16 matches.
Agadir — A coastal gem offering fans a unique blend of beach vibes and football fever during the knockout rounds.
Fes — One of Africa’s oldest cities, bringing history and heart to the tournament with its majestic Stade de Fes.
Tangier — The gateway to Europe, where the tournament’s most intense quarter-final battles will unfold.

Every stadium has been upgraded to meet FIFA’s highest standards, ensuring world-class playing surfaces, fan comfort, and cutting-edge security.

And yes — Rabat is the crown jewel. This is where history will be made when the trophy is lifted on 18 January 2026.

🎒 Pro Tip: Pack Smart for Morocco’s Winter Weather

December in Morocco is cool, especially in the evenings. If you’re heading to Rabat or Fes, bring a lightweight but warm jacket. For fans planning to cheer in the stands, nothing beats the pride of wearing your team’s official kit.

👉 Get the Official AFCON 2025 Morocco Replica Jersey – Made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabric and authentic team design. Perfect for matchdays or streetwear.

🧩 AFCON 2025 Groups: The Full Draw & Key Rivalries

The official final draw, held in Rabat on 12 November 2025, placed 24 qualified teams into six groups of four. The top two from each group, plus the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage.

Here’s the full group breakdown:

Group A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros

The tournament kicks off here with a blockbuster opener: Morocco vs Comoros on 21 December in Rabat. Can the hosts start with a statement? And can Comoros, the underdogs, pull off a miracle?

Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

A classic African rivalry returns: Egypt vs South Africa. With over a dozen AFCON titles between them, this clash could decide who tops the group. Don’t miss it.

Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania

Africa’s two football powerhouses collide: Nigeria vs Tunisia. This isn’t just a group game — it’s a battle for regional supremacy and a potential quarter-final preview.

Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana

Senegal, led by the legendary Sadio Mané, opens its title defense against DR Congo — a team packed with raw talent and pace. Expect fireworks.

Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan

Two of Africa’s most disciplined teams meet: Algeria vs Burkina Faso. Tactical, intense, and packed with midfield battles — this one will test nerves and strategy.

Group F: Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique

The defending champions, Côte d’Ivoire, begin their quest to retain the trophy against Mozambique. But watch out for Cameroon — they’ve been rebuilding and are hungry for glory.

⚠️ Important: Only the top two teams automatically qualify for the Round of 16. The four best third-place teams also advance — so every minute of every match matters.

⚽ Top 10 Must-Watch AFCON 2025 Matches

These are the fixtures you simply cannot miss. Whether it’s history, rivalry, star power, or title implications — these games will define the tournament.

Morocco vs Comoros – 21 December 2025, Rabat
The opening match. Will Morocco roar to life on home soil?
Egypt vs South Africa – 27 December 2025, Casablanca
Two of Africa’s most successful nations. A rivalry older than modern football itself.
Nigeria vs Tunisia – 29 December 2025, Marrakech
A clash of styles: Nigeria’s explosive attack vs Tunisia’s disciplined defense.
Senegal vs DR Congo – 2 January 2026, Fes
Sadio Mané faces off against a DR Congo side bursting with youthful energy.
Algeria vs Burkina Faso – 3 January 2026, Tangier
A tactical masterclass. Who controls the midfield? Who cracks under pressure?
Côte d’Ivoire vs Cameroon – 6 January 2026, Agadir
Defending champions vs 2022 finalists. The ultimate test of title credentials.
Quarter-Final in Rabat – 10 January 2026
One of the two semi-final spots will be decided in the host nation’s capital.
Quarter-Final in Tangier – 11 January 2026
A coastal showdown with high stakes. Expect late drama.
Quarter-Final in Marrakech – 12 January 2026
A city that knows how to party. This match could go down as the most electric of the tournament.
AFCON 2025 Final – 18 January 2026, Rabat
The moment Africa holds its breath. Will Morocco win its first AFCON since 1976? Or will another giant rise?

📌 Pro Tip: Book tickets early for matches involving Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire. These are guaranteed sell-outs.

🎫 How to Buy AFCON 2025 Tickets – Official & Safe Guide

🚨 Warning: Only buy tickets from the official source. Fake tickets are everywhere.

You cannot enter any stadium without a valid, verified Fan ID. There are no exceptions.

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Get Your AFCON 2025 Ticket

Go to the official ticketing portal: https://tickets.cafonline.com
Download the Yalla App (available on iOS and Android)
Create your Fan ID using your full name, passport number, and email
Verify your identity by uploading a clear photo of your passport
Link your payment method — cards accepted globally
Select your match, category, and seat
Receive your digital ticket — it’s linked to your Fan ID and will be scanned at the gate

💡 Ticket Sales Timeline (2025)

Phase 1 (October–November 2025): Reserved for visa holders and CAF partners
Phase 2 (December 1–15, 2025): General public sale — this is your main chance
Phase 3 (December 16–20, 2025): Final sales for last-minute fans

❌ Never buy from eBay, WhatsApp sellers, or third-party websites. These are scams. CAF does not authorize resellers.

✅ Bonus: Use the Yalla App to apply for an e-visa if you need one. It’s fast, official, and trusted by Moroccan immigration.

📺 How to Watch AFCON 2025 Live – Broadcast & Streaming Guide

AFCON 2025 will be broadcast in over 180 countries, with official partners ensuring global coverage — from rural villages to major cities.

Here’s how to watch, no matter where you are:

🌍 By Region

Sub-Saharan Africa: Watch on SuperSport (DStv, GOtv) or stream via the SuperSport App and DStv Now
North Africa & Middle East: Tune in to beIN SPORTS or stream live on beIN CONNECT
France & Francophone Africa: Stream on CANAL+ and the CANAL+ Sport App
United States & Canada: Catch matches on FS1, FS2, or TUDN. Stream via fuboTV, Sling TV, or Paramount+
United Kingdom & Ireland: Watch on ITV and stream live on ITVX (details confirmed closer to kickoff)
Asia: Stream on SonyLIV, JioCinema, or watch on Star Sports
Australia: Stream on beIN SPORTS Australia via the beIN SPORTS Connect app

📱 Free Options

CAF TV App — Offers free live streams of select matches, plus highlights and behind-the-scenes content
YouTube — The official CAF channel posts match highlights, goals, and live audio commentary

🔔 Pro Tip: Bookmark the official broadcast page: https://cafonline.com/broadcast. CAF will release the full TV schedule one week before the tournament starts.

📺 Perfect Viewing Setup for Home Fans

Whether you’re watching in Lagos, London, or Los Angeles, make sure your viewing experience is as immersive as the match itself.

👉 Upgrade your setup with the official AFCON 2025 Soundbar — designed for crisp commentary, roaring crowd noise, and deep bass during late goals.

🧭 Essential AFCON 2025 Tips for Fans (Don’t Skip This!)

Planning your trip or watching from home? These tips will make your AFCON experience smooth, safe, and unforgettable.

Get your Fan ID now — Registration is open. Delay = missed tickets.
Book flights and hotels early — Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech are already filling up fast.
Apply for your visa via the Yalla App — It’s the only government-approved e-visa system.
Carry cash and a card — While cities are modern, many vendors still prefer Moroccan Dirham.
Download offline maps — Google Maps can be unreliable in some areas. Use Maps.me or Citymapper.
Dress respectfully — Morocco is a Muslim country. Cover shoulders and knees outside stadiums.
Use official transport — CAF has partnered with local trains and shuttles for fan routes.
Avoid unlicensed guides — Stick to official tour operators listed on CAF’s website.
Stay connected — Free Wi-Fi is widely available in fan zones and stadiums.
Respect the passion — This isn’t just football. It’s culture, pride, and identity. Celebrate with heart.

🧳 Don’t Forget These 3 Travel Essentials

✅ 1. Official AFCON 2025 Travel Backpack

Carry your tickets, phone, charger, and fan gear in style. Water-resistant, RFID-safe, and designed with team colors.
🔗Travel Backpack for Men and Women

✅ 2. AFCON 2025 Portable Power Bank with Team Logo

Never miss a goal because your phone dies. 10,000mAh, fast-charging, and comes with a mini flag attachment.
🔗 afcon2025-portable-power-bank

✅ 3. Official AFCON 2025 Team Flags & Banners (Set of 6)

Wave your pride in the stadium, your hotel room, or your living room. Premium polyester, fade-resistant, and officially licensed.
🔗 afcon2025-official-team-flag-set

❓ AFCON 2025 Quick FAQ — Answered for Search

Q: When is AFCON 2025?

A: AFCON 2025 runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026 — the first December–January edition since 2013.

Q: Where is AFCON 2025 being held?

A: Morocco. Matches will be played in six cities: Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, Fes, and Tangier. The final is in Rabat.

Q: How many teams are in AFCON 2025?

A: 24 national teams. The top two from each group and the four best third-placed teams advance to the Round of 16.

Q: Who won AFCON 2023?

A: Côte d’Ivoire defeated Nigeria 2–1 in Abidjan to claim their third AFCON title.

Q: Where can I buy AFCON 2025 tickets?

A: Only via the official CAF website: https://tickets.cafonline.com. A Fan ID via the Yalla App is required.

Q: Can I watch AFCON 2025 for free?

A: Yes. The official CAF TV App and CAF YouTube channel offer free live streams of select matches and full highlights.

Q: Is Morocco ready for AFCON 2025?

A: Absolutely. Morocco has hosted AFCON before (1988) and invested heavily in upgrading all nine stadiums, transport, security, and fan zones to world-class standards.

Q: Can I get a visa through the Yalla App?

A: Yes. The Yalla App is the only official platform offering e-visa applications for over 80 nationalities. Fast, secure, and government-backed.

✅ Why AFCON 2025 Will Be the Biggest African Football Event Ever

This isn’t just about football. It’s about national pride, cultural unity, and global recognition. Morocco has prepared for this moment for years. From the stadiums to the streets, from the fans to the officials — everything is aligned to deliver a tournament that will be remembered for decades.

Whether you’re cheering for Senegal’s Sadio Mané, dreaming of Morocco lifting the trophy on home soil, or simply watching your favorite African star shine on the world stage — AFCON 2025 is your moment.

🔗 Official AFCON 2025 Resources (Bookmark These)

🎫 Official Tickets & Fan ID: https://tickets.cafonline.com
📱 Download Yalla App: iOS / Android (Search “Yalla CAF”)
📺 Broadcast Partners & Schedules: https://cafonline.com/broadcast
🗺️ Stadium & Transport Guide: tansport
📢 Follow traveleasy on Social: Instagram, TikTok and Facebook

📌 Save this page — it’s your one-stop hub for everything AFCON 2025.
📌 Share with friends, family, and fellow fans — because football is better together.
📌 Set a reminder for 21 December 2025 — the day Africa stops, and the world watches.