From December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, Morocco will host the 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Africa's biggest football event. Twenty-four national teams will compete across nine stadiums in six cities, as Côte d'Ivoire looks to defend its title, writes CAF in an «All You Need to Know About» preview of the tournament. Host and format Morocco will stage AFCON 2025, the country's first since 1988. The 24 qualified teams are divided into six groups of four, with the top two from each group and the four best third-placed teams advancing to the Round of 16. All knockout rounds will be single elimination, with extra time and penalty shootouts if needed. The tournament kicks off on December 21 in Rabat, with Morocco facing Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Host cities and venues Matches will be played in Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez, Tangier, and Agadir. Among the key venues are the Grand Stade de Tanger (75,600 seats) and the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium (69,500 seats). Ticketing Fans can purchase tickets digitally via the YALLA app, after registering for a Fan ID and, if necessary, an e-visa (AEVM). VISA cardholders will enjoy early access starting October 13, before general sales open to the public.
