The anticipation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 is building! On January 27, 2025, all eyes will be on Rabat, Morocco, as the draw for the group stage will unfold, determining the fate of 24 national teams competing for continental glory.

What is the Africa Cup of Nations?

The Africa Cup of Nations, or AFCON, stands as the premier football tournament on the continent, akin to Europe’s UEFA European Championship and South America's Copa América. Organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), AFCON crowning the best national team in Africa has grown significantly since its inception in 1957, expanding from just three teams to 24 participants as of 2019.

The 2025 AFCON is particularly significant, marking its 35th edition. The tournament is set to kick off on December 21, culminating in a final showdown on January 18, 2026.

AFCON Draw Details

The draw event is scheduled to commence at 19:00 Moroccan/Lagos time (GMT +1), with notable figures expected to grace the occasion, including former champions like Gervinho and legendary Essam El Hadary, as well as current CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, who will provide remarks to open the proceedings.

How the Draw Works

The 24 qualified teams have been divided into four pots based on their FIFA rankings as of December 2024. The highest six-ranked teams will occupy Pot One, ensuring that they cannot face each other in the initial group stage. Teams will be drawn into six groups of four, setting the stage for thrilling matches throughout the tournament.

The top two teams from each group along with the four best third-placed teams will advance to the knockout rounds, intensifying the competition.

Qualified Teams Overview

Here’s a brief look at which teams have earned their spots at AFCON 2025:

• Egypt: 27 appearances, previous best: Winners (6 times)
• Ivory Coast: 26 appearances, previous best: Winners (3)
• Nigeria: 21 appearances, previous best: Winners (3)
• Morocco: Hosts + Group B winners, 20th appearance
• Tunisia: 22 appearances, previous best: Winners (1)

This year boasts exciting lineups as national powerhouses clash, showcasing some of Africa’s best football talents.

Watching the Draw Live

For fans eager to catch the draw in real-time, CAF is expected to stream the event across its official platforms, including a live broadcast on CAF's YouTube channel. Be sure to check the CAF website for additional streaming details.

As the countdown to the AFCON 2025 continues, the excitement is palpable. Prepare for an unforgettable celebration of African football!