Football fans across Africa and beyond are buzzing with anticipation as the group stage draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to unfold. On January 27th in Rabat, Morocco, the 24 qualified teams will learn their fates and discover who they’ll battle in the quest for continental glory. As the premier football competition in Africa, AFCON 2025 promises to deliver thrilling matches, stunning upsets, and unforgettable moments.
The Draw Format and Seeding
The 24 teams have been divided into four pots based on their December FIFA rankings. The top six seeds—including hosts Morocco—comprise Pot 1, ensuring they won’t face each other in the group stage. One team from each pot will be drawn into six groups of four, setting the stage for a fascinating first round.
Pot 1: The Heavyweights
Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast headline the top-seeded teams. These perennial contenders boast star-studded squads and rich AFCON pedigrees. As they aim to assert their dominance, the other 18 teams will be eager to spring surprises and stake their own claims to the trophy.
The Returning Champions
Defending champions Ivory Coast find themselves in Pot 1, poised to mount a strong title defense. However, they’ll face stiff competition from a determined field, including record seven-time winners Egypt and three-time champions Nigeria. Can the Elephants retain their crown, or will a new king of African football emerge?
The AFCON is always full of surprises. Even the big teams can stumble early on. It’s all about who shows up ready to fight on the day.
– Patrick Mboma, two-time AFCON winner with Cameroon
Debutants and Dark Horses
While the traditional powers grab the headlines, keep an eye on the less heralded sides. Comoros and Botswana, both making only their second AFCON appearance, will be hungry to make a splash. Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Equatorial Guinea have also shown they can trouble the big guns on their day.
The Road Ahead
Once the group stage concludes, the top two finishers from each group along with the four best third-placed teams will advance to a knockout round of 16. From there, it’s a tense march through the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final on January 18, 2026, to determine who will be crowned kings of African football.
- December 21, 2025: AFCON 2025 kicks off
- January 18, 2026: AFCON 2025 Final
No matter how the draw shakes out, one thing is certain: AFCON 2025 will captivate audiences with its passion, color, and breathtaking football. As the pride of nations hangs in the balance, every match will be a battle and every goal will be celebrated with fervor. It’s time for Africa’s brightest stars to shine!
