By Martin Graham
As the Africa Cup of Nations returns for another mid-season edition, the focus is finally shifting away from schedule wrangling and onto the events on the pitch. Morocco hosts the 2025 tournament, which starts on Sunday, and expectations are high for a competition known for drama and surprises.
Two stories dominate the initial discussion. One focus is on whether Morocco can capitalize on home advantage and an extraordinary run of results to secure just their second continental crown. The other focuses on Mohamed Salah, who is trying again to win the CAN with Egypt after falling short on previous occasions.
However, history suggests that to reduce the narrative would miss the essence of this competition. Recent editions have brought shocks, unlikely champions and sudden changes, cementing AFCON’s reputation as one of football’s most unpredictable tournaments.
Morocco in the spotlight
Morocco arrive as favorites after climbing to the top of the African rankings and extending a world-record 18-game winning streak. Their status has been enhanced since their historic run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, which reshaped the perception of African teams on the world stage.
That winning streak, however, comes with qualifications. Tunisia is the only opponent in the world’s top 50 that Morocco has defeated during this run. For head coach Walid Regragui, who saw his side eliminated in the round of 16 in 2023, managing expectations may prove as important as tactics.
The public’s expectation is intense. Tickets sold out quickly, and supporters are looking forward to celebrations in Rabat on January 18, marking what they hope will be the country’s first AFCON triumph since 1976. Captain Achraf Hakimi is still racing against time to regain fitness, but even without him, Morocco are expected to reach the last 16.
The players have emphasized the importance of emotional intensity. Sofyan Amrabat spoke about recreating the collective spirit seen at the World Cup in Qatar, highlighting how the energy and commitment of the public can overcome the purely technical qualities of African football.
The wider context adds sensitivity to the event. Earlier protests by young Moroccans cast doubt on major investments in stadiums ahead of the 2030 World Cup, while deadly floods in the Safi region have cast a shadow. The tournament organizers will be keen to ensure that the AFAC CONFECTION runs smoothly as the country looks to bolster its footballing stature.
The pursuit of Salah and other contenders
For Mohamed Salah, this tournament represents another opportunity to claim the one major honor missing from his career. The 33-year-old is competing in his fifth AFCON, having missed two finals with Egypt.
His international focus follows a turbulent period at club level after publicly criticizing Liverpool earlier this month. Having returned from the bench last weekend, his attention is now fully focused on Egypt’s campaign and the chance to finally lift the trophy.
Elsewhere, several nations arrive with strong credentials. Ivory Coast’s surprise home win earlier this year, achieved despite sacking their coach during the group stage, remains fresh in the memory. Senegal have also shown their strength with a high-profile win over England in June.
Nigeria are hoping to improve on their performance at the 2023 finals, while Cameroon’s preparations have been overshadowed by internal turmoil. Both sides are looking for redemption after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Complaints, chaos and expectation
As with previous mid-season editions, the AFCON schedule has caused friction with European clubs. CAF faced limited options once FIFA scheduled an extended Club World Cup for June and July, leading to a compromise on player release dates.
FIFA ruled that clubs only had to release players seven days before the tournament, disrupting the preparation plans of several teams. Mali coach Tom Saintfiet called the move disastrous, arguing that African football deserved greater consideration.
Comoros were particularly hard hit, with overseas-based players forced to cut short a training camp and cancel a friendly ahead of their opening game against Morocco. Coach Stefano Cousin expressed his frustration at the late notice, saying earlier clarity would have allowed for better planning.
Despite these issues, CAF remains committed to a two-year cycle, with AFCON providing most of its revenue for reinvestment across the continent. On the pitch, other contenders include South Africa under Hugo Broos, Algeria led by prolific goalscorer Mohamed Amoura and Sudan, who qualified despite playing all their matches away from home due to civil war.
With seven different champions in the last eight tournaments, the presence of 12 former winners underlines the quality of the exhibition. While a first-time champion seems unlikely, AFCON history suggests surprises are still inevitable.
