The stage is set for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following the group stage draw conducted on Monday in Rabat, Morocco. Nigeria’s Super Eagles, led by Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, will battle Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C.
Group Highlights
Hosts Morocco will kick off the tournament on December 21 against Comoros, the surprise package from previous editions. Title-holders Ivory Coast face a tough challenge in Group F, which includes Cameroon, Gabon, and Mozambique.
Group B promises thrilling action as Mohamed Salah’s Egypt takes on South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe. Meanwhile, Group D will witness Senegal clashing with the Democratic Republic of Congo in one of the most anticipated matches of the group stages.
Super Eagles in Focus
Nigeria, runners-up to the Ivory Coast in 2024, are entering the tournament with high expectations. Boasting a strong attack featuring Lookman, the current African Footballer of the Year, and Osimhen, the Super Eagles aim to reclaim AFCON glory.
Their toughest challenge in Group C comes from Tunisia, who are making a record 17th consecutive appearance in the competition. East African teams Uganda and Tanzania will also be looking to make an impact.
Tournament Details
CAF President Patrick Motsepe expressed confidence that this edition of AFCON will set new standards, stating:
“I am extremely excited about the AFCON in Morocco, it is going to be the most successful yet. Ivory Coast raised the bar last year, and now we must reach even greater heights.”
The tournament, initially slated for mid-2025, was rescheduled to avoid clashing with the revamped FIFA Club World Cup. Matches will be played across six Moroccan cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, Agadir, and Marrakesh.
Group Breakdown:
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, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique
Key Dates:
Group Stage: Dec 21–31 (excluding Dec 25)
Last 16: Jan 3–6, 2026
Quarter-finals: Jan 9–10
Semi-finals: Jan 14
Third Place Match: Jan 17
Final: Jan 18
