By: Precious Miracle Kargo
With qualifications for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) now complete, anticipation is building for a tournament that promises to showcase the best of African football. Scheduled to take place between December 21st, 2025, and January 18, 2026, the lineup of qualified teams features a mix of established powerhouses and emerging contenders, with traditional heavyweights like Cameroon and Egypt facing off against underdogs such as Sudan and Botswana. For countries like Ghana and Sierra Leone, the heartache of missing out looms large.
A-Z profiles the 24 nations participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next year:
Morocco: (Nicknamed the Atlas Lions,) Morocco is the host nation and a formidable force in African football. The Atlas Lions completed their qualifying campaign undefeated, further cementing their place as continental powerhouses. With home support, they will aim to show that their 2022 World Cup showing was not a fluke.
Burkina Faso (The Stallions): Known for their resilience, Burkina Faso combines seasoned players with youthful talent, aiming to make a significant impact.
Cameroon (The Indomitable Lions): With a rich AFCON history, Five-time African Champions, Cameroon, boast a blend of skill and experience, making them perennial contenders.
Algeria: (The Desert Foxes of Algeria), led by the irrepressible Riyad Mahrez, boast a combination of veteran experience and new talent, a recipe they hope will lead to success.
DR Congo (The Leopards): Renowned for their attacking style, DR Congo aims to entertain and challenge in the tournament. Key players include Cédric Bakambu and Chancel Mbemba, who are expected to lead the charge with their dynamic play and experience.
Senegal: Blessed with the mercurial talents of Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, and Nicolas Jackson, the Lions of Teranga will be hoping to reclaim the title of Africa’s best in Morocco.
Egypt (The Pharaohs): With a record seven AFCON titles, Egypt’s squad, featuring stars like Mohamed Salah, will seek to launch a fresh assault on the continental crown.
Côte d’Ivoire (The Elephants): The reigning champions will be hoping to defend their title in Morocco, boasting star players like Franck Kessié and Simon Adingra.
Angola (The Palancas Negras): Angola will aim to spring surprises with a compact defence and quick breakaways.
Equatorial Guinea (Nzalang Nacional): Making their second consecutive AFCON appearance, Equatorial Guinea is eager to build on their previous success. The team has shown impressive growth, highlighted by a solid qualification campaign. They boast key players such as Iban Salvador and Emilio Nsue, who bring experience and creativity to the squad.
South Africa (Bafana Bafana): With a renewed focus on nurturing local talent, South Africa will aim to make an impact through players like Percy Tau and Rowen Williams.
Uganda (The Cranes): Known for their strong defensive play, Uganda will look to capitalize on recent improvements and further burnish their growing credentials.
Nigeria (The Super Eagles): Three-time Champions, Nigeria, will rely on stars like Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ademola Lookman to boost their title chances.
Gabon (The Panthers): Led by inspirational captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Gabon seeks to create upsets with their distinctive playing style.
Zimbabwe (The Warriors): Known for their spirited performances, Zimbabwe will look to make a mark at this tournament. Key players include Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona, who are expected to drive the team’s attacking efforts.
Zambia (The Chipolopolo): The reigning CHAN Champions, Zambia, aim to translate that success onto the AFCON stage. With a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced heads, they hope to showcase their credentials. Key players like Patson Daka and Enock Mwepu will be pivotal in their quest for glory.
Mali (The Eagles): Known for their talent production, Mali is viewed as a dark horse in the tournament. Key players include Yves Bissouma and Moussa Doumbia, who seek to make a significant impact and challenge for the title.
Comoros (The Coelacanths): Newcomers, Comoros, will be looking to take a few scalps off established continental powerhouses at the tournament. Led by key players like El Fardou Ben Nabouhane and Faiz Selemani, Comoros will be hoping to surprise established teams and showcase their potential.
Sudan (The Falcons of Jediane): Sudan’s rich football history fuels their ambition to make an impact. With key players like Saifeldin Malik Bakhit and Salaheldin Nemer, they will look to leverage their experience and compete fiercely in the tournament.
Benin (The Squirrels): Benin aims to assert themselves with their unique playing style. Key players, Steve Mounié and Jodel Dossou, will be crucial in their efforts to navigate the group stage and beyond.
Tanzania (The Taifa Stars): With a youthful squad, Tanzania looks to make an impact. Key players–Simon Msuva and Ditram Nchimbi–will be essential as they aim to capitalise on their potential and challenge for advancement.
Botswana (The Zebras): Making their second Afcon appearance, Botswana will be looking to make a name for themselves 12 years after their maiden continental appearance. Key players, Keagile Kgosintwa and Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, will be vital in their efforts to compete against seasoned teams.
Mozambique (The Mambas): Making their return, Mozambique aims to showcase their progress on the continental stage. Key players include Reginaldo Funini and Manuel Kambala whom they hope will play significant roles as they strive to leave their mark in Morocco.
Sustainability Initiatives
AFCON 2025 is set to emphasise sustainability, aiming to leave a positive legacy for the host nation and the continent. Organisers are implementing eco-friendly practices, including waste management programs and renewable energy initiatives at venues. Additionally, community engagement campaigns will educate fans about environmental stewardship, aiming to foster a culture of sustainability among attendees. By prioritising these initiatives, AFCON 2025 hopes to demonstrate that major sporting events can contribute to environmental conservation and community development.
My Verdict
As the AFCON 2025 tournament approaches, the stage is set for an exhilarating showcase of African footballing prowess. Each team brings its unique story and strengths, promising a captivating spectacle for fans across the continent and beyond. With a mix of seasoned champions and ambitious newcomers, the tournament is sure to deliver unforgettable moments and highlight the incredible talent that African football has to offer.