A World Cup Rehearsal with an African Flavor

December 2025 won’t be just another month. The entire continent will pulse to the rhythm of football as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) takes over Morocco. Just six months before the 2026 World Cup, the tournament stands as the perfect stage for teams to sharpen their weapons, test strategies, and prove who’s truly ready to represent Africa on the global stage.

For the first time in 37 years, Morocco will once again host the continent’s most prestigious football event. From Rabat to Marrakech, nine stadiums will echo with chants, drums, and the dreams of 24 nations fighting for glory between December 21, 2025, and January 18, 2026.

The Favorites: Powerhouses Ready to Roar

Among the natural contenders are hosts Morocco, Egypt —the record holders with seven titles—, Cameroon, and reigning champions Ivory Coast. Each arrives with a squad packed with stars from Europe’s top leagues and the ambition not only to lift the trophy but also to fine-tune their systems ahead of the World Cup.

Egypt will aim for an eighth crown led by Mohamed Salah, while Ivory Coast will seek to defend their title with a balanced team blending experience and youth. Morocco, semifinalists in Qatar 2022, carry both the pressure and passion of their fans, eager to prove that their past success was no fluke.

Stories That Could Surprise

But AFCON 2025 isn’t just about giants and tradition. There’s also room for surprises. Botswana makes its second-ever appearance, while teams like Comoros, Gabon, and Sudan will look to defy expectations and steal the spotlight.

Meanwhile, Tunisia extends its remarkable streak with 17 consecutive AFCON appearances —a testament to discipline and consistency that few can match across the continent.

The biggest shock, however, is the absence of Ghana, missing the tournament for the first time since 2004. A tough blow for the Black Stars, who will have to watch from home as new stories unfold on Moroccan soil.

Road to the World Cup: Lessons from AFCON

The 35th edition of AFCON will serve as the perfect prelude to the 2026 World Cup. Eight African teams have already secured their direct tickets to the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Ghana, Cape Verde, South Africa, Ivory Coast, and Senegal.

However, four nations —Gabon, DR Congo, Cameroon, and Nigeria— must still face a continental playoff in November to earn the right to represent Africa on football’s biggest stage.

With so many narratives at play, AFCON 2025 will be far more than a continental competition —it will be a showcase of African strength, evolution, and passion. A reminder that in Africa, football isn’t just about winning; it’s about making history.