When Does AFCON Start? Everything You Need to Know About AFCON 2025

AFCON 2025: The Tournament Is Almost Here

Football fans across Africa and beyond are eagerly asking: when does AFCON start? The answer is 21 December 2025, when the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco and runs until 18 January 2026. This marks a historic moment as it will be the first time the tournament has taken place over the Christmas and New Year period.

The 35th edition of Africa’s most prestigious football competition promises to be spectacular, bringing together 24 national teams competing across nine modern stadiums in six Moroccan cities. For players, clubs, and millions of fans worldwide, this tournament represents a month-long celebration of African football excellence.

Opening Match and Tournament Format

AFCON 2025 gets underway on 21 December 2025 when Morocco will host Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The same venue will also stage the final on 18 January, providing a fitting bookend to the competition.

The tournament follows the familiar 24-team structure, with teams divided into six groups of four. Following the group stage, the competition progresses through knockout rounds including the last 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals before culminating in the final. Defending champions Côte d’Ivoire arrive as the team to beat, while Egypt — the tournament’s most decorated side with seven titles — chase an eighth crown.

Why These Dates Matter

Originally, AFCON 2025 was scheduled for the summer months to minimize disruption to club football. However, the expansion and re-scheduling of the Club World Cup meant it was pushed back. The December-January timing, whilst unprecedented for AFCON, offers several advantages including cooler weather conditions in Morocco and peak holiday viewership opportunities for global broadcasters.

For Premier League clubs and other European leagues, the timing means they will be without key African players during the busy festive period. However, it ensures that top African stars can participate fully in this continental showpiece, raising the tournament’s competitive standard and global profile.

What to Expect

Morocco were awarded the hosting rights on 27 September 2023, and have invested heavily in infrastructure to ensure world-class facilities. The North African nation last hosted the tournament in 1988 and will use venues across cities including Rabat, Casablanca, and Tangier.

With 12 previous winners among the 24 participating nations, the competition promises intense football action and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re planning to attend matches in person or watch from home, AFCON 2025 represents a unmissable celebration of African football talent, culture, and passion on the world stage.