AFCON 2025: Africa’s Premier Football Tournament Set to Begin in Morocco

15 December 2025 Football Tournaments

Introduction: Africa’s Football Showcase Returns

The Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco runs from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026, marking the 35th edition of Africa’s most prestigious football tournament. The 2025 AFCON was initially slated to take place in June and July but moved to avoid a clash with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. With 24 nations qualified for the AFCON finals, the tournament promises intense competition as Ivory Coast will defend their title at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Impact on Premier League Clubs

The timing of AFCON 2025 has created significant challenges for Premier League clubs during their busiest period. The 2025 edition of the tournament starts on December 21, putting it on a collision course with the busiest time of the Premier League campaign. FIFA has set Monday, December 15 as the mandatory date for all clubs to release players called up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Leading players such as Mohamed Salah are leaving Premier League action to contest the Africa Cup of Nations over the coming month, whilst competing players could be away for up to six Gameweeks.

Tournament Details and Key Fixtures

Morocco was awarded hosting rights after organisational changes, with 9 venues in 6 cities that will host matches in the competition. Among the early fixtures, Bafana open their AFCON campaign against Angola on 22 December before facing Egypt four days later and rounding out Group B against Zimbabwe on 29 December. The tournament’s format sees the top two teams of each group, along with the best four third-placed teams, advance to the round of 16.

Conclusion: A Month of Continental Excellence

AFCON 2025 represents not only Africa’s premier sporting event but also a critical juncture for European clubs managing player absences. The tournament will showcase emerging talent alongside established stars, with nations competing for continental glory. For Premier League fans, the balance between supporting national pride and club interests adds an intriguing dimension to the traditional festive football period, making this edition particularly significant for both African football and the global game.