The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) returns this December, running from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. Hosted by Morocco, the 35th edition of the tournament will make history as the first AFCON to be played across the Christmas and New Year period. The festive scheduling is expected to drive increased global viewership, with fans tuning in throughout the holiday season.
The tournament will feature 24 teams drawn into six groups, continuing the expanded format introduced in 2019. Hosts Morocco arrive as one of the leading favourites, currently Africa’s highest-ranked side and in impressive form. Defending champions Côte d’Ivoire will aim to build on their dramatic 2023 victory, while Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria and South Africa are all strong contenders in the race for the title.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the tournament’s format, schedule, venues, groups and key teams to watch at AFCON 2025.
Tournament Format & What’s New
AFCON 2025 will feature 24 teams, following the expanded format introduced in 2019.
- 24 teams split into 6 groups of 4
- The top two teams in each group progress to the Round of 16
- They are joined by the four best third-placed teams
- All knockout matches are one-leg fixtures, decided by extra time and then penalties if needed
- Prize money: $7 million for the champions, with a total pot of $32 million.
Who Are The Favourites?
Morocco headline the favourites after putting together 18 consecutive wins across 20 months, scoring 50 and conceding only four — the longest winning streak in international football history. Current market odds back this up, giving the Atlas Lions a 25% chance of lifting the trophy.
But as AFCON has shown time and time again—with seven different winners in the last eight editions—surprises are part of its DNA.
But they’re not alone among the contenders and with seven different winners in the past eight tournaments, predictability is never an AFCON feature.
Senegal (15%)
Egypt & Algeria (14% each)
Nigeria (10%)*
Ivory Coast (9%)
South Africa (5%)
Players to Watch
A mix of global superstars and proven AFCON performers are expected to headline the competition. Some of the potentially most decisive to watch will include:
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco): The Moroccan captain and reigning CAF player of the year, will be central to the host nation’s ambitions. One of the best full-backs in world football, Hakimi’s pace, leadership, and attacking output could define Morocco’s tournament.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt): Despite still never winning an AFCON, Salah undoubtedly still remains Egypt’s biggest weapon due to his experience, goal threat, and ability to deliver in clutch moments. Will this be the year he finally hoist that trophy?
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria): Nigeria’s talisman and one of Africa’s most lethal strikers, Osimhen brings pace, power, and relentless pressing. If the Super Eagles are to go deep, their chances will likely rest on his goals.
Sadio Mané (Senegal): A former AFCON winner and tournament MVP, Mané’s experience and leadership remain invaluable. Even as Senegal evolve, he continues to be their emotional and attacking focal point.
Other notable mentions: Emilio Nsue (top scorer with five goals at the last AFCON), Simon Adingra, Bryan Mbeumo, and Aaron wan Bissaka.
Wrapping Up…
AFCON 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions yet. With upgraded facilities, high-profile clashes, and teams desperate to make history, Morocco is set to deliver a tournament worthy of the continent’s biggest stage.
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* For more on Nigeria’s chances, check out our Nigeria AFCON 2025 preview.
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