The weight of a nation rests on the shoulders of Morocco's national football team as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament officially begins this Sunday. The Atlas Lions, semi-finalists at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, are not only the hosts but also the top-ranked African team, carrying a world-record streak of 18 consecutive victories into the continental championship.
Atlas Lions Roar Under Home Pressure
Morocco will kick off their campaign at 1900 GMT on Sunday against Comoros at the brand-new, 69,000-seat Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Coach Walid Regragui has been unequivocal about the team's ambition, stating the objective is to win the trophy in front of their home fans. However, he also issued a stark warning about the immense pressure that comes with being the host nation and tournament favorite.
"The country that will have the most difficulty winning the AFCON is Morocco, because of the expectation on us," Regragui admitted. "The pressure on us is positive, but anything other than victory will be a failure." The North African side is seeking its first AFCON title since 1976.
Key Players and Formidable Rivals
A significant boost for Morocco is the return of star right-back Achraf Hakimi. The African Player of the Year, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, has declared himself fit despite an ankle injury sustained in early November. While he may be managed carefully in the opening match, his presence is a major morale booster. "I'm not thinking about me as an individual. If I only play one minute and the team wins, then that's fine," Hakimi stated.
The path to glory is fraught with challenges. Morocco faces stiff competition from several football powerhouses:
- Senegal: The 2022 champions, featuring stars like Sadio Mane.
- Ivory Coast: The reigning champions who won on home soil in 2024.
- Egypt: Led by Mohamed Salah, chasing a record-extending eighth title.
- Nigeria: The Super Eagles, led by Victor Osimhen, are desperate to make amends after missing World Cup qualification.
The tournament, which runs through to the final on January 18, 2026, features a unique December start due to a congested global football calendar.
A Tournament and a Showcase for 2030
This edition of the Africa Cup of Nations serves a dual purpose for Morocco. Beyond chasing football glory, it is a critical showcase of the nation's world-class infrastructure as it prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Matches will be played across several cities including Rabat, Tangier, Casablanca, Marrakesh, Agadir, and Fez, highlighting modern stadiums like the 75,000-capacity venue in Tangier.
Confederation of African Football (CAF) president Patrice Motsepe acknowledged the scheduling challenges that pushed the tournament into December and the New Year. He announced that future AFCON tournaments will be held every four years to better synchronize with the global football calendar.
As the opening whistle approaches, all eyes are on Morocco. The question remains: can the Atlas Lions transform the immense home pressure into the fuel needed to end their 49-year wait for continental supremacy?
