If you love football and want to stay ahead of the game, you’ve landed in the right place. The Africa Cup of Nations returns in 2025 with a packed schedule, new stadiums and plenty of storylines. Below you’ll find everything you need to know – from match dates to travel tips – without the fluff.
The tournament kicks off on 12 June 2025 and runs until 8 July 2025. Ivory Coast is the host nation, offering eight venues across Abidjan, Bouaké, Yamoussoukro and other cities. Group matches will be spread over the first two weeks, with quarter‑finals, semis and the final packed into the last ten days. Keep an eye on the official fixture list – a few kick‑off times may shift to accommodate TV audiences in Europe and Asia.
Fans at home can catch every match live on SuperSport in Sub‑Saharan Africa, BBC Sport in the UK, and a growing list of streaming services like ESPN+ and DAZN for North America. If you prefer the stadium buzz, tickets go on sale in March through the official AFCON portal. Pick a group‑stage game in Abidjan for the biggest crowds, or travel to a smaller city for a more intimate experience.
Top teams to watch include the defending champions Senegal, Egypt trying to add a 9th title, and the surprise package Ghana, who have a youthful squad eager to prove themselves. Nigeria and Cameroon also bring a mix of experience and fresh talent, making every match a must‑see.
Key players to keep tabs on are Sadio Mané, who’s back after a short break, Egypt’s Mohamed Salah looking for his first AFCON crown, and Ghana’s young striker Joseph Aidoo, who’s been lighting up the Serie A. Expect a few breakout stars from the under‑23 squads as coaches give them a chance on the big stage.
Ticket buying is straightforward but fast‑moving. Register on the official site, choose your seat tier, and pay with a credit card or PayPal. Early‑bird packages include a match‑day guide, a souvenir jersey and free transport between venues. If you’re traveling from abroad, consider a “fan pass” that bundles three matches and includes a hotel stay.
Travel tips: Ivory Coast’s main airport is in Abidjan, with regular flights from Europe and Africa. Domestic flights connect to other host cities, but buses are cheap and run regularly on match days. Bring a portable charger – stadium Wi‑Fi can be spotty – and pack light, as security checks are strict.
The tournament isn’t just about football; it boosts local economies, showcases African culture and raises the profile of women’s football with parallel matches in the women’s AFCON schedule. Expect music festivals, food fairs and fan zones popping up around each stadium.
Bottom line: AFCON 2025 promises drama, talent and unforgettable moments. Bookmark this page for updates, check the fixture list regularly, and start planning your match‑day experience now. Whether you watch from the couch or the stands, the cup is set to deliver pure football excitement.
AFCON 2025 in Morocco will pull over 50 Premier League players from their clubs during a pivotal part of the season. With stars like Mohamed Salah, Ismaila Sarr, and Nicolas Jackson set to miss up to six matches, teams and fantasy managers alike need to adapt. The tournament collides directly with the busy holiday fixture schedule.
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