Participating teams host cities and Match schedule

 **AFCON 2025: Participating Teams, Host Cities, and Match Schedule – Everything You Need to Know**  

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is back in 2025, promising another thrilling showcase of Africa’s football talent, passion, and culture. As the continent’s most prestigious football tournament, AFCON 2025 will unite 24 national teams competing across iconic host cities. This blog dives into the participating teams, host cities, match schedules, and key insights for fans worldwide. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, here’s your ultimate guide to AFCON 2025.  

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### **Host Country and Cities: A Glimpse into Morocco’s Football Legacy**  

For the first time since 1988, Morocco will host AFCON, bringing state-of-the-art infrastructure and vibrant cultural experiences to the tournament. The North African nation, known for its passionate football fans, has selected six host cities:  

1. **Casablanca** – Home to the 80,000-seat **Grand Stade de Casablanca**, the venue for the opening match and final.  

2. **Rabat** – The capital city’s **Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium** will host group-stage clashes.  

3. **Marrakech** – Matches at the **Stade de Marrakech** will blend football with the city’s historic charm.  

4. **Agadir** – The modern **Adrar Stadium** welcomes teams in a coastal setting.  

5. **Tangier** – The **Ibn Batouta Stadium** offers a gateway between Africa and Europe.  

6. **Fez** – Cultural hub Fez will showcase knockout matches at **Fez Stadium**.  

Morocco’s investment in high-tech stadiums, transportation, and fan zones ensures AFCON 2025 will be a milestone event.  

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### **Participating Teams: Africa’s Football Giants and Rising Stars**  

AFCON 2025 features 24 teams divided into six groups. Here’s a breakdown of the squads to watch:  

#### **Group A**  

- **Morocco** (Hosts): The Atlas Lions, led by Achraf Hakimi and Sofyan Amrabat, aim to capitalize on home advantage.  

- **Senegal** (Defending Champions): Sadio Mané and Kalidou Koulibaly seek a historic back-to-back title.  

- **Mali**: Emerging talents like Mohamed Camara could spark surprises.  

- **Madagascar**: The Barea return with a mix of youth and experience.  

#### **Group B**  

- **Egypt**: Mohamed Salah’s quest for a fifth AFCON title headlines this group.  

- **Nigeria**: Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze lead the Super Eagles’ charge.  

- **Burkina Faso**: The Stallions rely on Bertrand Traoré’s creativity.  

- **Namibia**: Underdogs aiming to replicate their 2023 Cinderella run.  

#### **Group C**  

- **Algeria**: Riyad Mahrez and Ismaël Bennacer target redemption after recent setbacks.  

- **Ghana**: The Black Stars, with Thomas Partey and Mohammed Kudus, are perennial contenders.  

- **Zambia**: A young squad hungry to revive their 2012 glory.  

- **Mauritania**: Making their third consecutive AFCON appearance.  

#### **Group D**  

- **Cameroon**: Indomitable Lions, powered by André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, eye a sixth title.  

- **Ivory Coast**: The 2023 hosts return with Nicolas Pépé and a rebuilt squad.  

- **Guinea**: Naby Keïta’s midfield mastery could propel them deep.  

- **Togo**: Sparrowhawks return after a decade-long absence.  

#### **Group E**  

- **Tunisia**: The Carthage Eagles, featuring Ellyes Skhiri, blend tactical discipline and flair.  

- **DR Congo**: Dieumerci Mbokani’s leadership remains pivotal.  

- **South Africa**: Bafana Bafana’s revival under Hugo Broos continues.  

- **Ethiopia**: Walia Ibex return with a focus on defensive solidity.  

#### **Group F**  

- **Côte d’Ivoire**: A revamped squad seeks to erase 2023’s group-stage exit