The journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco is well underway, with 48 teams battling it out in the group stage for the coveted 24 spots. As the qualifying campaign reaches its climax during the final international break, the picture of who will make it to the continent’s premier football showcase is becoming clearer. Let’s dive into the latest news, scores, fixtures, and standings.
The Format and Schedule
The road to AFCON 2025 began with a preliminary round in March, followed by a 48-team group stage. The teams were drawn into 12 groups of four, with the top two from each group progressing to the tournament proper. Hosts Morocco automatically qualified, leaving 23 spots up for grabs.
The entire group stage has been squeezed into just three international windows:
- Matchday 1 & 2: September 2-10
- Matchday 3 & 4: October 7-15
- Matchday 5 & 6: November 11-19
Ghana’s Struggles
One of the major storylines has been the shocking struggles of Ghana, a traditional powerhouse of African football. The four-time champions are in real danger of missing out on the tournament for the first time since 2004.
Ghana’s wretched qualifying campaign is the latest symptom of a decade of decline in the country’s football.
According to a close source
Ghana need to win both their remaining games to have any chance, but their fate is not entirely in their own hands. Coach Otto Addo’s job is likely on the line.
Rising Stars and Favorites
On the flip side, Angola, Morocco, Egypt, Congo DR, and Algeria have all won their first four matches. Hosts Morocco in particular have been impressive, notching 14 goals already. They’ll be eyeing a first title on home soil since 1976.
Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy has been the breakout star and top scorer of the qualifying campaign so far. His goals have revived Guinea’s hopes under new coach Michel Dussuyer.
With Guirassy upfront, Guinea could be genuine contenders in Morocco next year.
According to a close source
Crunch Time
As we enter the final stretch, several groups remain finely poised. Tunisia, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Gabon currently top their respective pools but there is still all to play for.
With some heavyweight clashes and potential banana skins ahead, expect plenty more twists and turns before the final whistle blows on this fascinating qualifying campaign. The next two weeks will determine the 24 teams that will chase the dream of continental glory in Morocco in early 2025.
