The stage is set for a continental football festival as the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) officially begins on Sunday, December 21, 2025, in Morocco. After months of intense preparation, the North African nation rolls out the red carpet for Africa's finest, embracing the campaign theme "Welcome Football, Welcome Fans."
Morocco Transforms into a Footballing Mecca
This marks the second time Morocco hosts the prestigious tournament, the first being in 1988. The kingdom, which is also preparing to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, has pulled out all the stops. From the moment fans land at airports like Casablanca, the AFCON atmosphere is palpable. Giant branded footballs, vibrant LED screens, and cultural displays greet visitors, turning arrival halls into extensions of the tournament stadiums.
Morocco's National Airports Office (ONDA) has spearheaded the "Welcome Football, Welcome Fans" initiative, ensuring seamless entry for thousands of supporters. The country has leveraged its experience from recently hosting the Women's AFCON 2024 and the U-17 AFCON 2025 to manage this larger event. For many fans, like Nigeria's Abdulrahman Sule from Lagos, the immersive welcome is a clear signal: "Africa has gathered here."
Super Eagles Land with Unifying Mission
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have arrived in Morocco with a dual objective: to win a fourth AFCON title and to once again unite a nation. Under coach Eric Chelle, the team blends experienced stars with exciting new talent. The attack, spearheaded by African Footballers of the Year Victor Osimhen (2023) and Ademola Lookman (2024), is considered one of the tournament's most potent.
Nigeria's campaign starts on Tuesday, December 23, against Tanzania's Taifa Stars in a repeat of their 1980 opener. They will then face Tunisia on December 27 and Uganda on December 30 in Group C. The Eagles carry the hopes of a nation still smarting from the failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, looking to replicate the unifying spirit of their 2023 run to the final in Cote d'Ivoire.
A Battle of Titans with No Clear Favorite
Opta's supercomputer analytics point to a wide-open competition. Host nation Morocco, riding an 18-match winning streak and backed by stars like Brahim Díaz and Youssef En-Nesyri, are slight favourites with a 19.1% chance of lifting the trophy on January 18, 2026.
However, they are closely pursued by a pack of heavyweights:
- Egypt (12.4%): The most decorated nation with seven titles, led by Mohamed Salah, who is desperate for his first AFCON crown.
- Senegal (12.3%): The 2021 champions, with Sadio Mané still leading the Lions of Teranga.
- Algeria (12.0%): The 2019 winners, seeking to rediscover their best form with Riyad Mahrez pulling the strings.
- Nigeria (7.3%): The 2023 runners-up, armed with a fearsome attacking lineup.
The tournament, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, is the first to be played over the Christmas and New Year period, a shift caused by FIFA's expanded Club World Cup. Defending champions Cote d'Ivoire, along with Tunisia, Mali, Cameroon, South Africa, and DR Congo, are all seen as capable of making a deep run, underscoring AFCON's legendary unpredictability.
For Nigerian fans, following the Super Eagles has been made easier. Morocco has introduced free e-visas for ticket holders via the Yalla app, simplifying travel. For those staying home, matches will be broadcast on SuperSport, the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), and partner stations across the country. The beautiful game promises a month of drama, passion, and unforgettable moments as Africa's finest battle for continental supremacy.
