All you need to know following the AFCON 2025 draw

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

The full draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has been officially announced. The tournament, featuring 24 teams, promises intense competition and thrilling matchups across six groups.

Defending Champions Ivory Coast are drawn against continental powerhouse Cameroon, Gabon and Mozambique.

Beaten finalists at the last edition, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have been handed Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania. Meanwhile, hosts the Atlas Lions of Morocco will trade tackles withe Comoros, Mali, and Zambia in Group A.

ALSO READ:

• AFCON 2025: Nigeria drawn against Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C
• Greek giants Olympiacos announce capture of Super Eagles defender Bruno Onyemaechi
• Benue-born forward Akor Adams joins Iheanacho, Ejuke at Sevilla
• Eric Chelle officially unveiled as Super Eagles Head Coach in Abuja

Below is a brief preview of what you need to know ahead of the tournament.

Group Stage Draw:

Group A – Morocco, Comoros, Zambia, Mali
Group B – Zimbabwe, Angola, South Africa, Egypt
Group C – Tanzania, Uganda, Tunisia, Nigeria
Group D – Botswana, Benin, DR Congo, Senegal
Group E – Sudan, Equatorial Guinea, Burkina Faso, Algeria
Group F – Mozambique, Gabon, Cameroon, Ivory Coast.

Key tournament dates:

The opening match is scheduled for Sunday, 21 December 2025. The final match will take place on Sunday, 18 January 2026.

Tournament Venues:

Nine stadiums across Morocco will host the matches. This ensures top-tier facilities for players and fans alike.

New match schedule:

Teams will no longer play two matches on the same pitch on the same day. This change improves pitch quality.

Training facilities:

Interestingly, each of the 24 participating teams will have a dedicated base camp and training ground. This guarantees better preparation.

Tournament outlook:

In anticipation, the AFCON 2025 promises to showcase the continent’s best talent. Defending champions Ivory Coast will aim to retain their title. Hosts Morocco are also strong contenders, boasting an impressive record in African football. Fans can look forward to another exciting continental tournament full of promising clashes.

Tags: AFCON, Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria, Atlas Lions, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcsports, nrtcnews.