
2025 Africa Cup of Nations
December 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026 +01

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, also known as TotalEnergies AFCON 2025, is set to be a monumental event as Morocco hosts the continent’s premier football tournament for the first time since 1988. This edition promises to be a spectacular showcase of African football, featuring 24 of the continent’s top national teams. With the tournament rescheduled to the winter, from late December 2025 to early January 2026, it offers a unique opportunity for fans to combine world-class football with a memorable holiday in the captivating North African nation.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know to plan your trip to Morocco for this landmark tournament. From the teams competing and the iconic venues, to essential information on travel, tickets, and accommodation, this document will help you prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Who is competing in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?
The 2025 tournament will feature 24 national teams from across the continent, all battling to be crowned champions of Africa. The group stage draw was held in Rabat, Morocco, on January 27, 2025, and the teams have been divided into six groups of four.
- Group A
- Morocco
- Mali
- Zambia
- Comoros
- Group B
- Egypt
- South Africa
- Angola
- Zimbabwe
- Group C
- Nigeria
- Tunisia
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Group D
- Senegal
- DR Congo
- Benin
- Botswana
- Group E
- Algeria
- Burkina Faso
- Equatorial Guinea
- Sudan
- Group F
- Ivory Coast
- Cameroon
- Gabon
- Mozambique
When is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. This schedule is a unique departure from the traditional summer tournament, allowing fans to enjoy the vibrant culture of Morocco during its milder winter season.
- Opening Match: The tournament will begin on December 21 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
- Final Match: The grand finale will be held on January 18, also at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where the new African champions will be crowned.
Where is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?
The tournament will be hosted across six different cities in Morocco, each offering a unique cultural experience for visiting fans. This spread of venues provides an incredible opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and rich history of the country.
- Rabat: As the capital city, Rabat is a perfect blend of modern sophistication and ancient history. It will be the central hub for the tournament, hosting both the opening and final matches at the impressive Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium (69,500 capacity).
- Tangier: Located at the northern tip of Morocco, Tangier is a bustling port city with a captivating mix of European and Moroccan influences. Its venue is the modern Ibn Batouta Stadium (75,000 capacity).
- Casablanca: Morocco’s largest city and economic hub, Casablanca is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning Art Deco architecture and the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. Matches will be played at the historic Mohammed V Stadium (45,000 capacity).
- Marrakesh: A city steeped in history and culture, Marrakesh is famous for its bustling souks, vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and beautiful palaces. The city’s main venue is the Marrakesh Stadium (45,000 capacity).
- Agadir: Situated on the Atlantic coast, Agadir is Morocco’s premier beach resort destination. Fans can enjoy football and relax on its beautiful golden sands. Matches will take place at the Adrar Stadium (45,000 capacity).
- Fes: Home to the world’s oldest university and a sprawling, car-free medina, Fes offers a journey back in time. The city’s venue is the Fez Stadium (45,000 capacity), providing a historical backdrop to the games.
How do I get to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?
Attending the 2025 AFCON will require some travel planning, and thankfully, Morocco’s infrastructure makes it relatively easy to get around. Booking your travel and accommodation in advance is highly recommended.
1. By Air
Morocco has numerous international airports, with several located in the host cities. This makes flying the most common and efficient way to arrive in the country.
- Major International Airports:
- Rabat–Salé Airport (RBA)
- Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG)
- Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca
- Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK)
- Agadir–Al Massira Airport (AGA)
- Fes–Saïss Airport (FEZ)
For fans planning to attend matches in multiple cities, domestic flights or the excellent train network will be the most efficient modes of transport.
2. By Car & Public Transport
- Within Cities: Most host cities have extensive public transportation networks, including buses and taxis, to help you get around. Taxis are generally affordable and widely available.
- Inter-city: Morocco boasts a modern and efficient railway network. The high-speed Al Boraq train connects Tangier and Casablanca, making travel between these cities fast and convenient. Regular train services connect most of the other host cities as well.
- Car: While driving is an option, be aware that parking and navigating city centers can be challenging, especially on match days.
Important Planning Notes:
- Visa Requirements: Check your country’s visa requirements for Morocco well in advance of your trip.
- Currency: The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), which is a closed currency you can only acquire inside the country. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it’s always wise to carry some cash.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for any international trip.

How do I get tickets to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?
Securing tickets for AFCON is a highly competitive process. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is the official ticketing authority. It is crucial to only buy from official channels to avoid scams.
1. Official Ticketing Channels
- CAF’s Official Website: The official CAF website will be the primary source for all legitimate ticket sales. Fans should monitor the site and register for any official alerts.
- Official Hospitality Partners: CAF may also partner with official hospitality providers for premium ticket-inclusive packages, offering guaranteed access and a superior matchday experience.
2. When Do Tickets Go On Sale?
Tickets for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will go on sale in three phases:
- Phase 1:
- Visa Presale Window (Exclusive for Visa cardholders): September 25-26, 2025
- General Public Window (All payment methods): September 27, 2025 (30% of stadium capacity)
- Phase 2:
- Visa Presale Window (Exclusive for Visa cardholders): October 21-22, 2025
- General Public Window (All payment methods): October 23, 2025 (Additional 30% of stadium capacity)
- Phase 3:
- Remaining Tickets (All payment methods): November 21, 2025
3. Types of Tickets
- Individual Match Tickets: For a specific match.
- Venue Series Tickets: To attend all matches at a particular stadium.
- Tournament Passes: For access to multiple matches or a specific stage of the tournament.
Where to stay during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
Finding suitable accommodation during the 2025 AFCON will require significant advance planning. Due to high demand in all six host cities, prices will be substantially higher and availability will be limited.
1. Key Accommodation Hubs
Each host city offers a wide range of accommodation options. When booking, consider staying in areas with good public transport links to the stadiums to avoid traffic and parking issues.
2. Types of Accommodation
- Hotels: From luxurious five-star resorts to budget-friendly chains, hotels are a popular choice. Book early to secure your preferred location.
- Riads: For a truly authentic Moroccan experience, consider staying in a Riad. These traditional guesthouses are often beautifully decorated and offer a unique, private atmosphere.
- Hostels: A more budget-friendly option, particularly for solo travelers.
- Vacation Rentals: Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo will be popular for groups or longer stays. Be aware that prices will surge during the tournament.
3. Booking Tips
- Book as early as possible: Accommodation will be in extremely high demand. Start your search and booking process many months in advance.
- Check Cancellation Policies: Ensure you understand the cancellation policies of any bookings you make, as plans can change.
- Use Reputable Booking Sites: Use well-known booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare options.

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to the the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, here are essential resources for your trip.
- CAF Official Website
- CAF Official X account (for real-time updates)
- Visit Morocco
- The Moroccan National Tourist Office
- Tripadvisor
- Skyscanner