The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) officially gets underway this evening, Sunday 21 December 2025, as tournament hosts Morocco take on the Comoros in the opening match. The clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat sees the pre-tournament favourites begin their campaign against one of the continent's smallest nations.
Atlas Lions Aim to End Long Wait for Continental Glory
Morocco, known as the Atlas Lions, carry the weight of a nation's expectation as they start their quest for only a second Afcon crown. Their sole triumph dates back to 1976, a surprisingly lean return for a side considered one of Africa's footballing powerhouses.
This historical underachievement was evident as recently as the 2023 tournament, where they suffered a shock exit in the round of 16 at the hands of South Africa. However, the team's legendary run to the semi-finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar has fuelled belief that this could be their time, especially with the advantage of playing on home soil.
Daunting Task for Afcon Debutants Comoros
Standing in their way in Group A are the Comoros, ranked as the third-smallest nation in Africa. This appearance marks just their second ever at the Afcon finals, following a memorable debut in 2021 where they defied expectations by reaching the knockout stages.
Nicknamed the Coelacanths, they face a monumental challenge to replicate that feat this time around. Their group stage schedule is formidable, with upcoming fixtures against strong sides like Mali and Zambia following tonight's opener against the hosts.
Ivory Coast's Shadow and Home Advantage
The tournament begins under the shadow of the remarkable 2023 champions, Ivory Coast. The Elephants' story was one of the most extraordinary in football history, having sacked their manager mid-competition and nearly been eliminated in the group stage before rallying to lift the trophy against Nigeria.
Morocco will hope to harness a similar spirit, bolstered by what is expected to be fervent home support. The incredible backing they received during the World Cup in Qatar demonstrated their potential to create a formidable atmosphere, though it also brings intense pressure to meet the sky-high expectations of a nation desperate for continental success.
The action kicks off at 17:04 GMT, with Walid Regragui's Moroccan side heavily favoured to secure a winning start. For Comoros, the match represents a proud occasion and a chance to once again prove they can compete with Africa's elite on the biggest stage.
