Janice R. Andrews
The qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) concluded on November 19, confirming the 24 teams set to compete in Morocco. This 35th edition of the tournament will take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, across six Moroccan cities. While football giants like Nigeria, Senegal, and defending champions Ivory Coast booked their places, notable absentees include Ghana and Kenya.
Morocco to Host AFCON 2025
As the host nation, Morocco is preparing to showcase its football dominance following its impressive performances in global tournaments like the FIFA World Cup. Originally scheduled for June/July, the tournament was rescheduled to avoid overlapping with the new-format FIFA Club World Cup.
Surprising Misses: Ghana and Kenya
A major talking point of the qualifiers was the failure of Ghana to secure a spot. The four-time champions finished last in Group F, capping off a series of underwhelming performances over recent editions. This marks a new low for the Black Stars, sparking calls for significant reforms.
Kenya’s Harambee Stars also missed out, continuing their absence from the continental stage. Meanwhile, East African neighbors Tanzania and Uganda both qualified, with Tanzania pulling off a stunning victory against Guinea to seal their place.
Complete List of Qualified Nations
Here is the full list of teams heading to Morocco for AFCON 2025:
- Morocco (Host)
- Comoros
- Tunisia
- Gabon
- Egypt
- Botswana
- Nigeria
- Benin
- Algeria
- Equatorial Guinea
- Sudan
- Zambia
- Ivory Coast
- DR Congo
- Tanzania
- Mali
- Mozambique
- Cameroon
- Zimbabwe
- South Africa
- Uganda
- Senegal
- Burkina Faso
Botswana makes a notable return to the tournament after a 12-year absence, while all other teams have featured in previous editions.
Early Contenders for the Title
With the tournament still a year away, Morocco will face high expectations to win on home turf. Despite their international success, they’ve only won AFCON once, back in 1976. Nigeria, runners-up in the 2023 edition, will aim for redemption, while Senegal, Algeria, and defending champions Ivory Coast are also strong contenders for the title.
East African Success and Rivalry
Tanzania’s qualification sparked celebrations and some playful rivalry. Following their triumph over Guinea, Tanzanians mocked Kenya for failing to qualify. Uganda also secured their place, boosting the region’s representation at the tournament.
AFCON 2025 is shaping up to be a thrilling competition, with Africa’s top teams and rising stars ready to battle it out in Morocco. Stay tuned for updates as the countdown begins!
