2025 AFCON – Adomonline.com

Which Premier League teams will lose most players to Afcon?

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:20:00 +0000

The Africa Cup of Nations kicks off earlier than usual this year – with up to 17 Premier League clubs set to be affected by players jetting off to host country Morocco.

The tournament runs from 21 December until 18 January.

There has been no official announcement about which date clubs will have to release their players by – and it could vary depending on agreements.

Players could miss up to six, or in some cases seven, Premier League matches – plus FA Cup and Carabao Cup games – if they reach the final.

The group stages end on 31 December, so quickly eliminated players may only miss half that amount.

Arsenal, Chelsea and Leeds do not have any players due to play in the 2025 Afcon – with Sunderland and Wolves losing the most players.

BBC Sport looks at which teams are due to lose players.

Aston Villa (1)

Villa’s only player at Afcon will be Ivory Coast forward Evann Guessand.

However, the 24-year-old has only started five Premier League matches – so Villa will be confident of coping without him.

Bournemouth (1)

Like Villa, Bournemouth should not be too affected by Afcon.

Attacking midfielder Amine Adli is likely to be in the Morocco squad. But the 25-year-old has started only one Premier League match since his summer arrival.

Fortunately for boss Andoni Iraola, his star man Antoine Semenyo’s Ghana did not qualify for the competition.

Brentford (2)

Brentford will have two players going off to Afcon – including one first-team regular.

Club-record signing Dango Ouattara will feature for Burkina Faso. The £42.5m forward has scored twice for the Bees.

Midfielder Frank Onyeka – who has only played 88 minutes in the league this season – plays for Nigeria.

Brighton (1)

Brighton must do without Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba, who has started nearly every game for Albion this season.

Yankuba Minteh’s Gambia did not qualify.

Burnley (3)

Burnley will have three players at the tournament

Former England Under-21 defender Axel Tuanzebe will be playing for DR Congo at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Striker Lyle Foster could feature for South Africa, while playmaker Hannibal Mejbri is in line to represent Tunisia at the tournament.

Crystal Palace (1-4)

The biggest blow for Crystal Palace will be the loss of Senegal winger Ismaila Sarr, who has scored eight goals in all competitions this season.

Then they have three maybes.

Forward Christantus Uche, who has only featured as a substitute for Palace so far, is a Nigeria international but was not in their most recent squad.

Neither Morocco defender Chadi Riad nor Mali midfielder Cheick Doucoure have played a competitive game of football since January following serious knee injuries.

Whoever does go will miss Palace’s Carabao Cup quarter-final with Arsenal on 23 December.

Everton (2-3)

Everton will lose two members of their starting XI both to Senegal – four-goal forward Iliman Ndiaye and midfielder Idrissa Gueye.

Young defender Adam Aznou has not been in a Morocco squad since his summer move from Bayern Munich to Merseyside.

Beto is a Guinea-Bissau international but they did not qualify.

Fulham (3)

Fulham will see three players all go off to join the Nigeria squad.

Midfielder Alex Iwobi and defender Calvin Bassey have played every game in the league this season, while winger Samuel Chukwueze has only been used off the bench.

Liverpool (1)

Eighth-placed Liverpool will only lose one player to Afcon – but that one player is one of their greatest footballers ever.

Mohamed Salah, who has scored five times so far in an underwhelming campaign, will certainly be in the Egypt squad.

Manchester City (2)

Title-chasing City have two players going off to Afcon, but neither have played all that much this season because of injury.

Egypt forward Omar Marmoush has started two Premier League games, with three starts for Algeria left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri.

Manchester United (3)

Manchester United’s right-hand side will have a very different look to it over the festive period.

Cameroon forward Bryan Mbeumo and two players who have featured at right wing-back – Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo and Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui – are all heading off next month.

Newcastle (0-1)

The only potential departure for Newcastle is a player who has yet to play for the club.

DR Congo forward Yoane Wissa, a summer signing from Brentford, injured his knee on international duty in September.

A return is thought to be imminent, although there are reports DR Congo will not call him up.

Nottingham Forest (1-4)

Nottingham Forest have up to four players who will leave for Afcon – but it could be as low as one.

Midfielder Ibrahim Sangare is certain to be in the Ivory Coast squad, while defender Willy Boly will hope to be but has barely played this season – and was not in their most recent squad.

Full-back Ola Aina and forward Taiwo Awoniyi are both Nigeria internationals. But Aina has not played since hamstring surgery in September – and Awoniyi has not been in a squad this year.

Sunderland (7)

This season’s surprise package, fourth-placed Sunderland will be the worst affected team by far by Afcon 2025 with seven players due to leave.

They are Morocco winger Chemsdine Talbi, Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra, Mozambique full-back Reinildo, Ivory Coast winger Simon Adingra, Burkina Faso forward Bertrand Traore and DR Congo pair Arthur Masuaku and Noah Sadiki.

The majority of them are first-team regulars, with 50 Premier League appearances between them this season.

Diarra has been out since September through injury.

Tottenham Hotspur (1-2)

Tottenham might have two midfielders going off to Afcon – Senegal’s Pape Matar Sarr and Mali’s Yves Bissouma.

Bissouma has not played for Spurs this season and had ankle surgery in October.

Mohammed Kudus will be available for his club because Ghana failed to qualify.

West Ham (2)

Struggling West Ham will lose both of their starting full-backs for a few weeks.

Right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka will link up with DR Congo, while left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf will play for Senegal.

Wolves (5)

Wolves are bottom of the Premier League and without a win – and five players will jet off.

Zimbabwe pair Marshall Munetsi and Tawanda Chirewa, Ivory Coast defender Emmanuel Agbadou,Nigeria striker Tolu Arokodare and Cameroon full-back Jackson Tchatchoua will all be heading off.

Chirewa has not played for Wolves this season, but the rest are all regulars.

2025 AFCON: LOC and CAF announce free e-Visa via YALLA App for fans

Samuel Appiah — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 09:07:39 +0000

The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 Local Organising Committee (LOC) together with the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF), has announced free electronic visas for fans travelling to the tournament.

Electronic visas to enter Morocco — obtained through the YALLA app — are now free of charge for supporters attending the competition, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

The announcement comes as the global demand grows for Africa’s biggest event with more fans booking their seat on CAF’s ticketing Platform (tickets.cafonline.com)

A Fan ID is mandatory for entry to all stadiums and official Fan Areas. Supporters can apply for both the Fan ID and e-visa in one place inside the YALLA app, streamlining travel and stadium access.

The Fan ID application and e-visa request are completed seamlessly within the YALLA app, ensuring a faster, easier and secure experience for international visitors and local fans alike.

How to apply

Download YALLA on Google Play or the App Store, or visit www.yallamorocco.ma.
Complete your Fan ID form and, if required, the e-visa request.
Once approved, buy match tickets on tickets.cafonline.com.

A 24/7 helpdesk supports applicants in Arabic, English and French. Call +212 5 30 30 20 30 or e-mail: info@yallamorocco.ma

The new measures are designed to deliver a seamless, secure fan experience for Africa’s showpiece event that will be played across nine stadiums in six cities.

CAF, with support from the LOC, reaffirms its commitment to delivering a world-class spectator experience throughout Africa’s greatest football celebration.

CANAL+ & SuperSport bring CAF TotalEnergies AFCON Morocco 2025 in style

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:59:05 +0000

CANAL+ is proud to announce that its MultiChoice subsidiary, SuperSport, has secured broadcast rights for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025™ (TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025™) for English and Portuguese-speaking African countries.

When the 35th edition of the tournament kicks off in Morocco on 21 December 2025, CANAL+ will become the first global broadcaster to bring viewers the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025™, the massive African football showpiece, in French, English, Portuguese and local indigenous languages.

It means the broadcaster will offer CANAL+ and SuperSport viewers the most comprehensive football viewing experience that any sports broadcaster has ever managed to accomplish for Africa’s greatest football competition.

The group made the announcement on 06 November 2025 that SuperSport has concluded a broadcast rights deal with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for the right to broadcast the tournament in English and Portuguese-speaking Sub-Saharan African territories.

CANAL+ Africa CEO, David Mignot, said: “Our newly formed merger with the MultiChoice Group has already unlocked opportunities and benefits for our customers. And this year’s TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 is a great demonstration of the power and potential of this common ambition: bringing together our expertise to offer unprecedented coverage. Moreover, broadcasting this competition in different languages is a strong way to build closeness with our viewers. For all these reasons, our subscribers will be part of the most spectacular celebration of African football.”

CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, said: “This is an exciting day for CAF and for African football. When the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations takes place in Morocco in December, Africans everywhere — on the continent and across the diaspora — will be watching with pride. Millions will follow the games on television, celebrating the best that African football has to offer.

“In Côte d’Ivoire, the last AFCON attracted approximately 1.5 billion viewers globally. We anticipate that this edition will be an even greater success, reaching new audiences and inspiring the world once again. When 180 nations express interest in broadcasting AFCON, it is proof that the world is excited about African football.”

Rendani Ramovha, Director of Sport Content English and Portuguese-speaking Africa for MultiChoice (a CANAL+ company), said: “We are especially proud to be able to bring the story of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025™, live to all our viewers in English and Portuguese-speaking Sub-Saharan African territories. SuperSport has been the preferred choice for millions of passionate fans across the continent, and this tournament won’t be different, as we will have a dedicated SuperSport AFCON channel.

“As part of the CANAL+ Group, we can take that viewing experience to another level, which means people can expect more compelling viewing, brought to them in a language of their choice. It is truly poised to be a celebration of African glory.”

Viewers will be able to view SuperSport’s coverage of Morocco 25 on DStv and GOtv, while CANAL+ subscribers will enjoy the action on CANAL+ Sport and on demand using the CANAL+ app.

In Nigeria and surrounding regions, fans can enjoy the matches in English or Pidgin, while Swahili is available in East African countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. In Angola, South Africa and Mozambique, fans have become accustomed to enjoying the beautiful game in Portuguese on SuperSport, which will be available during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025™.

South Africans, meanwhile, will also enjoy games in isiZulu and Setswana on top of the standard English and Portuguese commentary.

CANAL+ and SuperSport’s coverage of the tournament will include stellar line-ups of star analysts, commentators, presenters and African football legends, who will bring their unique takes on the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025™.

Hundreds of millions of viewers can see their favourite African heroes in action, including the likes of Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Mohamed Salah (Egypt), Sadio Mané (Senegal), Ronwen Williams (South Africa), Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) and Achraf Hakimi (Morocco).

Morocco sweat as PSG star Hakimi ruled out for ‘several weeks’

Samuel Appiah — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 10:32:39 +0000

Paris St-Germain and Morocco right-back Achraf Hakimi has been ruled out for “several weeks” with a severely sprained left ankle.

The injury to his captain will be a major concern for Atlas Lions coach Walid Regragui ahead of the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which is being held in the North African nation for the first time since 1988.

The tournament kicks off in less than seven weeks on 21 December.

The 27-year-old sustained the injury in Tuesday’s 2-1 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League, and he left the pitch in tears in first-half stoppage time after a rash challenge from behind by Luis Diaz.

Former Liverpool forward Diaz was subsequently sent off following a review by the Video Assistant Referee.

Hakimi was a vital part of the Morocco side which reached the semi-finals of the 2022 Fifa World Cup, and helped his country qualify for the 2026 edition with a 100% record.

He is on the 10-man shortlist for this year’s African Footballer of the Year Award and is seen as one of the top contenders for the prestigious trophy.

On Monday, he was also named in this year’s Fifpro World XI.

Hakimi injury an ‘unfortunate moment’

PSG announced the news of Hakimi’s lay-off on the club website on Wednesday afternoon.

Boss Luis Enrique had described the injury as “bad luck” after the match.

“That’s football, it’s a contact sport,” he said, before recalling the leg fracture suffered by Bayern’s Jamal Musiala during the Club World Cup quarter-final between the same teams in the United States in July.

“It’s a shame because it is complicated for the players, but I remember the injury Musiala got in the summer and it is just one of these moments of bad luck.”

Bayern coach Vincent Kompany added: “All that matters is that Hakimi recovers quickly.

“What can I say? The intensity levels were massive.

“It is an unfortunate moment and that can happen. He didn’t mean to injure him.”

It was difficult to accept Black Stars’ AFCON qualification failure – Randy Abbey

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 10:43:14 +0000

Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Dr Randy Abbey, has described Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a bitter pill to swallow.

The Black Stars, four-time African champions, will miss the continental showpiece for the first time in more than two decades after finishing bottom of their qualifying group with just three points and no wins from six matches.

Reflecting on the team’s campaign, Dr Abbey admitted that the result was hard to accept but believes it served as a crucial reality check for both head coach Otto Addo and his players.

“It was difficult to take when Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and I believed it served as a rude awakening for Otto Addo and the Black Stars,” Abbey told Sporty FM.

Despite that disappointment, the Black Stars have since bounced back strongly, securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ghana’s absence at 2025 AFCON disappointing – Okaikwei Central MP

Ghana’s absence at 2025 AFCON disappointing – Okaikwei Central MP

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:55:54 +0000

Member of Parliament for Okaikwei Central, Patrick Yaw Boamah, has expressed deep disappointment over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in over two decades, the Black Stars will not feature in Africa’s most prestigious football competition after finishing bottom of their qualifying group with just three points.

Speaking to Sporty FM, Boamah described the development as painful and difficult to accept, noting that the absence of Ghana’s national anthem at the tournament will be hard to bear.

“That you’ll be watching AFCON without the national anthem being played, while anthems of other countries are being played. It’s painful,” the lawmaker told Sporty FM. “AFCON without Ghana is like a car without an engine.

“Because we were ill-prepared and not serious at the time,” he added.

Despite his frustration, the MP urged Ghanaians to treat the setback as an opportunity to rebuild and revitalise the national team.

“Maybe it’s a good thing for us to use this time to assess our players in Europe, Africa, and Asia, and rebuild a strong and attractive national team,” he added.

Although missing out on the AFCON has been a huge blow, the Black Stars have redeemed some pride by securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

It would be a mistake to sack Otto Addo ahead of 2026 World Cup – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

We made tough decisions after Black Stars’ AFCON setback – GFA boss Kurt Okraku

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 10:41:32 +0000

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has disclosed that the Executive Council was compelled to take difficult decisions following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana, four-time winners of the continental championship, missed out on the tournament which will be hosted in Morocco later this year for the first time in more than two decades.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show on Friday, October 24, Mr Okraku explained that the GFA leadership had to act decisively in response to the setback.

“The Executive Council met and made tough decisions to change things around the Black Stars because we engaged stakeholders before arriving at the final decision, and over time, we have been justified.

He added that the team’s recent performances show significant improvement.

“The Black Stars went through a series of qualifications, and we are scoring goals, which proves that the Black Stars have improved, and it also shows that we were honest in dealing with the issues.”

Mr Okraku further admitted that he took personal responsibility for the team’s failure to qualify.

“I owned up after failing to qualify for the AFCON.”

Despite the disappointment, the Black Stars have turned their fortunes around in 2025, securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ghana will learn their group-stage opponents for the World Cup on December 5.

Otto Addo will lead Black Stars to 2026 World Cup – Kurt Okraku confirms

Black Stars failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON the lowest moment in my career – GFA boss Kurt Okraku

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 09:42:39 +0000

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has described Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as the lowest point in his football administration career.

For the first time in over two decades, the Black Stars will miss out on Africa’s premier football competition, set to be hosted in Morocco later this year. The setback drew heavy criticism from fans and pundits, who blamed the GFA for the team’s disappointing campaign.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Mr Okraku reflected on the painful episode, recalling the challenges he faced since assuming office in 2019.

“When I took over in 2019, there was one phrase that I used, which was that the road ahead of us would be tough, but by the mercies of God, we would get through,” he said.

“I knew the state of football when I took over after our internal analysis. At that time, there was no football, so our responsibility at that time was to resurrect football and by doing that, we knew we could not win all games, but what shocked me was the level we descended to.

Okraku admitted that Ghana’s poor showings at the 2021 and 2023 AFCON tournaments, followed by the failure to qualify for the 2025 edition, represented a major blow to his leadership.

“We played AFCON in Cameroon and Ivory Coast, and we did not perform. Last year, we did not qualify for the AFCON in Morocco, and that was perhaps my lowest footballing career, thinking that we would participate in the AFCON.

Despite the disappointment, the GFA president expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing that the association is focused on long-term improvement.

“As leaders, we came together to find solutions to the challenge because at teh end of the day, it is not only about qualifying for the AFCON but performing at all levels,” he added.

While the Black Stars will miss the upcoming continental showpiece, they have secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offering fans a renewed sense of hope.

2026 WC: Players who have no commitment will not make Black Stars squad – GFA boss Kurt Okraku

Kwasi Appiah: Sudan deserved AFCON qualification more than Ghana

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 14:14:01 +0000

Sudan head coach Kwasi Appiah believes his team earned their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) more than Ghana, following a resilient qualifying campaign marked by adversity.

The Falcons of Jediane sealed qualification for the continental showpiece, set to be hosted in Morocco later this year, after finishing second in Group F with eight points — two wins, two draws, and two defeats.

During the qualifiers, Sudan held Ghana to a goalless draw in Accra before Appiah’s men stunned the Black Stars 2-0 in Libya.

Speaking to CAFOnline, Appiah described Sudan’s qualification as “special,” particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in the country.

“It was very special, especially given the circumstances. Many people expected Ghana to qualify, but football has changed — no one can be taken for granted anymore,” he said.

“Of course, as a Ghanaian, I would have liked both teams to qualify, but my job is with Sudan. The players showed great commitment and deserved this success.”

The former Black Stars coach reflected on the significant challenges Sudan faced throughout the qualifiers, including the absence of domestic football for more than two years.

“It has been extremely tough. For more than two years, Sudan has had no league football, so selecting players has been challenging.

“We always had to play away from home, but the key was to change the players’ mentality — to make them see every venue as “home” and give their best for the people of Sudan.”

He credited the unity and determination of players from Al Hilal, Al Merreikh, and other Africa-based professionals as central to their achievement.

“The commitment of those from Al Hilal and Al Merreikh, along with others based in Africa, was crucial,” he added.

Sudan have now been drawn in Group E for the AFCON, where they will face Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea in what promises to be a fiercely contested group.

Pyramids FC make history with maiden CAF Super Cup triumph

Sannie Daara defends Otto Addo despite criticism over AFCON miss

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:20:30 +0000

Ibrahim Sannie Daara has defended Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, insisting the 49-year-old has been unfairly criticised following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Addo, a former Borussia Dortmund talent coach, came under intense scrutiny after the Black Stars missed the continental tournament for the first time in 21 years.

Fans and pundits questioned his tactical approach, while Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Adams described him as “lucky” during the World Cup qualifiers.

Despite the backlash, Addo guided Ghana to an impressive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, securing victories in seven of the eight matches under his leadership.

“Throughout our qualifying history in Ghana’s World Cup campaigns, we’ve not had such an impressive outing,” Daara, a former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director, told Joy Sports.

“All credit to everyone involved, particularly the coach [Otto Addo], who has, in my opinion, been unfairly targeted.

“The level of scrutiny – even to the point where a reporter can confront him and say, ˜Look, you are not qualified to coach our country; you should leave’ – was difficult. And for him to have turned it around, massive congratulations to him,” he added.

Addo is expected to lead the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

We were determined to revive Black Stars after AFCON setback – Dr Randy Abbey

All you need to know about the 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:41:31 +0000

21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, Morocco will come alive to the rhythm of the 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations.

Twenty-four national teams, nine stadiums and six host cities will welcome the very best of African football, as Côte d’Ivoire look to defend their crown against a new wave of ambitious challengers.

Host Country and Dates

Morocco will host the 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

The title is currently held by former hosts, Cote d’Ivoire who lifted the title on home soil.

Qualified Teams

No.	Country	Status
1	Morocco	Host
2	Côte d’Ivoire	Defending Champion
3	Burkina Faso
4	Egypt
5	Algeria
6	Angola
7	DR Congo
8	Cameroon
9	Senegal
10	Equatorial Guinea
11	Tunisia
12	Comoros
13	Gabon
14	Nigeria
15	Zambia
16	Mali
17	Zimbabwe
18	South Africa
19	Uganda
20	Botswana
21	Benin
22	Sudan
23	Tanzania
24	Mozambique

Tournament Format and Rules

The 24 nations are divided into six groups of four teams each for the group stage. The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the Round of 16, marking the start of the knockout phase.

From there, each match will be a single-elimination game, with extra time and penalty shoot outs if necessary. The quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final will determine the champion.

To view the regulations for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, click HERE.

Groups and Fixtures

Group	Team 1	Team 2	Team 3	Team 4
A	Morocco	Mali	Zambia	Comoros
B	Egypt	South Africa	Angola	Zimbabwe
C	Nigeria	Tunisia	Uganda	Tanzania
D	Senegal	DR Congo	Benin	Botswana
E	Algeria	Burkina Faso	Equatorial Guinea	Sudan
F	Côte d’Ivoire	Cameroon	Gabon	Mozambique

The opening match will feature Morocco (host nation) against Comoros on 21 December 2025 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

To download the full match schedule for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, click HERE.

Stadiums and Host Cities

City	Stadium	Capacity
Agadir	Grand Stade d’Agadir	45,480
Casablanca	Stade Mohammed V	67,000
Fès	Complexe Sportif de Fès	45,000
Marrakech	Stade de Marrakech	45,240
Rabat	Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium	69,500
Rabat	Stade Moulay Hassan	22,000
Rabat	Stade Al Barid	18,000
Rabat	Rabat Olympic Stadium	21,000
Tanger	Grand Stade de Tanger	75,600

Ticket Information

To obtain tickets for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, the process is simple and fully digital:

1. Download the YALLA App (Google Play / App Store).
2. Apply for your Fan ID and, if required, your e-Visa (AEVM) via the app.
3. Once your Fan ID is approved, VISA cardholders can purchase tickets on tickets.cafonline.com starting Monday, 13 October 13, 2025, at 09:00 AM (Morocco Time) / 08:00am GMT.

CAF ‘absolutely confident’ AFCON will go ahead in protest-hit Morocco

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:16:57 +0000

African football boss Patrice Motsepe said on Monday he is “absolutely confident” the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will go ahead in Morocco, the scene of daily anti-government protests for more than a week.

Young Moroccans took to the streets on Sunday for a ninth straight night of protests, calling for an end to corruption and a change of government.

The protesters have demanded reforms to social services, especially health and education, and voiced anger over social inequality.

Morocco is scheduled to stage the Cup of Nations (AFCON) from December 21 to January 18 at nine venues, with 24 national teams competing in the premier African football competition.

Stars like Egypt and Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah and Morocco and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi are among the players set to participate.

Speaking during an annual gathering of African football bosses in Kinshasa, Confederation of African Football president Motsepe said: “We (CAF) are absolutely confident the AFCON will go ahead as planned.

“Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B and Morocco is plan C,” he told his audience, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

“CAF will co-operate and work with the government and all the citizens of Morocco to host the most successful AFCON in history,” said Motsepe, a South African billionaire businessman.

Morocco hosted the 1988 AFCON – then an eight-nation tournament – and withdrew as hosts of the 2015 version citing Ebola virus fears.

African Football League ‘important’

Motsepe said CAF hoped to revive the African Football League, which was launched amid much hype only to be discontinued in 2023 after one radically changed edition.

Instead of 24 entrants, playing a minimum of 14 matches each, and record prize money for an African club competition, Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa won a watered-down eight-team tournament.

“There are ongoing discussions. We are very happy about the progress made. The African Football League is very important and it will continue,” said Motsepe, without giving details.

Motsepe inherited a CAF deep in debt when he replaced Ahmed Ahmed in 2021 after FIFA banned the Malagasy for breaching codes related to loyalty, abuse of position and misappropriation of funds.

He quickly improved the situation and a net profit of $9.48 million for the 2023-24 financial year was announced in Kinshasa. CAF predict there will be a surplus of $28.45 million next year.

“We have been enormously successful in the last five years. Revenues have quadrupled. Zero tolerance of bribery and corruption is important. All the money goes into football development,” said the president.

“What member associations get has doubled. We want to pay players more and help our national teams. Football must develop and grow in Africa.

“We give $100 000 to each club that does not qualify for the group stage of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup. It is not enough, but helps with transport and other things.”

Ghana names final squad for 2025 Hockey AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 07:01:41 +0000

The Ghana Hockey Association has officially unveiled the final men’s squad for the 2025 Hockey Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Egypt from October 11th to 18th.

The announcement confirms Ghana’s determination to reclaim its place among Africa’s hockey elite as the team prepares for continental action against the best sides on the continent.

The selected players are:

Benjamin Kweku Acquah, Daniel Ansah Anim, Luke Kofi Damalie, Stephen Ofosu Asamoah, Emmanuel Elorm Akaba, Benjamin Kwofie, Jesus Nii Nortey Nortey, Malik Abdul, Samuel Akpene Agbeli, Francis Lartey Tettey, Bernard Addo Quaye, Christopher Dogbe, Francis Folivi, Kofi Okyere Quagraine, Prince Klutse, Abdellah Adisson, Joshua Amartey Teye, and Sylvester Akwafo Apronti.

The squad blends experienced internationals and rising talents, signalling a balanced and competitive team ready for the challenge.

With months of preparation and domestic league form to build on, Team Ghana enters the tournament focused on one mission, which is continental glory.

“The team has shown strong commitment in training and we are confident they will make the nation proud,” Dr Ben K. D. Asante, President Ghana Hockey Association, noted.

Ghana’s journey at the Hockey AFCON 2025 begins next week in Cairo, where every pass, tackle, and goal will count toward their quest for gold.

CAF marks 100 days to kick-off 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 09:59:51 +0000

The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 will kick-off in Morocco in exactly 100 days, bringing together passionate fans from across the continent and showcasing Africa’s football excellence to the world.

Africa’s biggest sporting event is expected to break the records set by the hugely successful 2023 edition in Côte d’Ivoire, which attracted a global television audience of over 1.5 billion and more than 2.4 billion digital streams.

Morocco will play host to the continental finals for the first time since 1988, and will provide world-class facilities for the 24-team tournament that runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, where Cote d’Ivoire will defend their title.

The finals will be played in nine stadiums across six cities – Rabat, Casablanca, Fès, Tangier, Marrakech and Agadir.

The Kingdom successfully staged the recent TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2024 and the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 2025, showcasing its organisational excellence and the passion of fans for the game.

It comes as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, the second time the global showpiece event will be staged on the continent, underlining the country’s status as a hub for world football.

Morocco promises to provide a fan experience like no other away from the pitch with excellent hospitality and electric action on the field of play in state-of-the-art stadiums in a true celebration of African football.

The tournament will be the 35^th staging of the continental finals and another chapter in the rich history of a competition first played in 1957.

Saintfiet shocked by Ghana’s failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:52:04 +0000

Mali head coach Tom Saintfiet has admitted he is stunned by Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The four-time African champions endured a disastrous qualifying campaign, failing to win any of their six matches. The Black Stars finished bottom of their group with just three points, marking the first time in more than 20 years that they will miss Africa’s flagship tournament.

Speaking to the press ahead of Mali’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ghana on Sunday, September 8, at the Accra Sports Stadium, Saintfiet expressed both shock and admiration for the Black Stars.

“It will be a very tough task. I have huge respect for the Ghanaian team. I really believe they have everything, and it’s shocking that they won’t play at AFCON,” the Belgian coach said.

He added: “A country like Ghana must become African champions in the near future with all the quality they possess.”

Kick-off for the Ghana-Mali clash is scheduled for 19:00 GMT.

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Kwasi Sibo explains Black Stars’ 2025 AFCON qualification failure

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 12:11:30 +0000

Real Oviedo midfielder Kwasi Sibo believes a lack of team cohesion and excessive individualism were key factors behind the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana, a four-time African champion, failed to secure a spot in the continental showpiece for the first time in 20 years, finishing bottom of their qualifying group with three draws and three defeats from six matches.

Kwasi Sibo

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, the 27-year-old Sibo pointed to the team’s disjointed play during the qualifiers as a major reason for the disappointment.

“I watched the qualifiers, and what I realised was that there was too much individuality, unlike the World Cup qualifiers,” Sibo said.

“You can see the bond and love among the players now for the World Cup qualifiers, but during the AFCON qualifiers, we did not see that,” he added.

Despite the disappointment of 2024, the Black Stars have started 2025 on a stronger note.

The team recorded back-to-back victories against Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and went on to finish third at the Unity Cup held in London.

The national team will reconvene in September for Matchdays 7 and 8 of the World Cup qualifying campaign, where they are set to face Chad and Mali.

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Some players are not committed – Kwabena Yeboah on Black Stars’ AFCON heartbreak

Samuel Appiah — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 11:17:19 +0000

Veteran broadcaster, Kwabena Yeboah, has raised concerns about the commitment levels of some Black Stars players following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in 20 years, Ghana will not feature in Africa’s premier football tournament after finishing at the bottom of their qualification group with just three points.

The Black Stars failed to secure a single win during the qualifiers, registering three defeats and three draws in six matches.

In an interview with Metro TV, the President of the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) expressed disappointment, suggesting a lack of emotional connection and understanding of the AFCON’s significance—particularly among players born or raised outside the continent.

“It’s difficult for me to say this, but quite a number of our players do not even understand the importance of the Africa Cup of Nations,” Yeboah said.

“I won’t mention names, but several players born abroad or those who have stayed out for a long time don’t fully understand how crucial the Cup of Nations is to us Africans. However, they understand the significance of the World Cup.”

He cited the team’s fixture against Niger as an example, where up to eight key players reportedly withdrew from the squad under various pretenses.

“If you remember the game against Niger, as many as eight of our regulars turned their backs on the team, offering all kinds of reasons.

“They wouldn’t do the same thing for the World Cup. Look at how quickly they responded to the calls for the World Cup. Every single player knows the importance of the World Cup, and I’m happy that things are turning around,” he added.

Despite the disappointment of missing out on AFCON, the Black Stars bounced back during the March international break with back-to-back wins over Chad and Madagascar. Those victories have placed Ghana at the top of Group I with 15 points in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The national team is expected to regroup for a four-nation tournament in London in May, ahead of crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Mali in September.

Kamaldeen Sulemana expresses disappointment after AFCON miss

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:55:41 +0000

Ghana forward Kamaldeen Sulemana has expressed his deep disappointment following the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in over 20 years, Ghana will miss out on Africa’s premier football competition after finishing at the bottom of their qualifying group. The four-time African champions endured a challenging campaign, managing only three draws and suffering three defeats in six matches.

Speaking in an interview with Showmax, the Southampton winger didn’t hold back on his emotions.

“We are very disappointed. There are no words to describe how sad we feel. We really missed out big time, and this is a huge blow for the whole country,” Sulemana told Showmax.

While the Black Stars have found some redemption with their recent form in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Sulemana admits that the sting of missing AFCON still lingers.

“Even though we are doing well in the World Cup qualifiers, our failure to qualify for AFCON is still in the back of our minds. How did we miss out on AFCON, miss out on a local one like this? AFCON is so different from every other tournament, and we take so much pride in taking part in AFCON, so we are greatly disappointed.”

The 22-year-old lamented Ghana’s poor performances in recent AFCON editions and expressed regret over missing the chance to turn things around this year.

“Obviously, Ghana hasn’t won AFCON in a long time, and we really want to take it home, so we are really sad we haven’t qualified. We also didn’t perform well in the last two AFCON tournaments, so we were hoping to make this year a great one. We as players take the blame and take full responsibility for not qualifying, and we have apologised to the country and our fans. We want to do well in the World Cup qualifiers and in the World Cup,” he added.

Despite the setback, there is a silver lining. The Black Stars remain in contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup after back-to-back wins during the March international window, offering hope for a brighter future.

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Otto Addo apologises for Black Stars’ AFCON qualification failure

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 06:54:25 +0000

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has apologised to Ghanaians following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana finished at the bottom of their group with just three points, managing three draws and suffering three defeats.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chad on Friday, Addo took responsibility for the disappointing campaign while urging unity among Ghanaians.

“Surely, I’m the head coach, but I think we are all in this together. It’s not only about me. When we win, we all win, and when we lose, we all lose. I really want to say sorry for what happened. Especially in the home games, the most important thing missing was the goals,” the 49-year-old said.

Addo also expressed gratitude for the support the team has received and called for continued backing.

“I need everybody, and I want to thank you all. The country has given us support—the president, the sports minister, and everyone,” he said.

The Black Stars will face Chad in Kumasi on Friday before travelling to Morocco on Monday for their final group match against Madagascar.

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Black Stars disappointed to miss AFCON – Stephen Appiah [Audio]

Samuel Appiah — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:14:10 +0000

Vice Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, Stephen Appiah, has admitted that the team is deeply disappointed after failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana, a four-time African champion, endured a frustrating qualifying campaign, finishing bottom of their group with just three points from three draws and three defeats. This disappointing outcome means the Black Stars will miss out on the tournament in Morocco.

Despite the setback, Appiah—who captained Ghana to its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in 2006—believes the team is eager to redeem itself as they prepare for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Appiah highlighted the team’s commitment and work ethic in training, emphasizing their desire to win both upcoming matches.

Ghana will take on Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 20, before traveling to Morocco to face Madagascar in their Matchday 5 and 6 fixtures of the qualifiers.

Meanwhile, head coach Otto Addo and his squad will conclude their training sessions today ahead of Friday’s crucial clash.

Michael Essien urges fans to move on after Black Stars’ AFCON qualification failure

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 18:31:39 +0000

Former Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien believes it’s time for football fans to move forward following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ghana endured a disappointing qualifying campaign, finishing at the bottom of their group with just three points after recording three draws and three defeats.

As a result, the four-time African champions will miss the AFCON tournament for the first time in 20 years.

Speaking to Sporty FM, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star admitted his disappointment but stressed the importance of looking ahead.

“I would say I was surprised we didn’t make it to the AFCON, but there’s a whole lot going on with the Black Stars.

“It is sad but we have to move on. What has happened has happened, and sometimes it’s better not to qualify than to just add to the numbers.

“If you qualify you have to compete,” he added.

Despite the AFCON setback, Ghana will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

They return to action on Friday against Chad in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier before taking on Madagascar on Monday, March 24.

Lessons have been learnt from our AFCON failure – Kurt Okraku

Samuel Appiah — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 21:30:33 +0000

The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has acknowledged the lessons learned from the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in 20 years, Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion, missed out on Africa’s premier football tournament.

The Black Stars endured a disappointing campaign, finishing at the bottom of their group with just three points after six matches—recording three losses and three draws.

Despite a challenging 2024, which saw them secure only two victories against Mali and the Central African Republic, the national team is set to regroup for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking to 3Sports, Mr. Okraku emphasized the need for reflection and improvement.

“I think hard lessons have been learnt by everybody, me inclusive.

“I hope that the players, technical team and everybody within the space will definitely not be happy and that will be a motivation for all of us as far as our responsibilities to the nation is concerned,” he added.

The Black Stars will resume camp in Accra on Monday, March 17, 2025, in preparation for their crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures. Ghana is set to face Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, before traveling to Morocco for a Group I clash against Madagascar on Monday, March 24.

Agyemang-Badu blames GFA, Otto Addo for AFCON failure

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 23:07:45 +0000

Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has blamed the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and head coach Otto Addo for the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in two decades, the four-time African champions will miss the continent’s biggest football tournament.

Ghana endured a disappointing qualifying campaign, finishing last in their group with just three points from six matches—suffering three defeats and securing only three draws.

Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu

Speaking in an interview, the U-20 FIFA World Cup winner criticized both the GFA and Otto Addo, stressing that they must take responsibility for the team’s poor performance.

“The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and Otto Addo must all share the blame for failing to qualify Ghana for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON),” he told Sporty FM.

Despite this setback, the Black Stars will now turn their attention to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers later this month, with crucial matches against Chad and Madagascar on the horizon.

I knew we would qualify ahead of Ghana because of Kwesi Appiah – Sudan Assistant coach

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 22:14:47 +0000

Sudan assistant coach Ignatius Osei-Fosu has attributed their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to the vast experience of head coach Kwesi Appiah.

The Falcons of Jediane secured their place in the tournament alongside Angola, while Ghana finished bottom of their group with only three points.

Osei-Fosu expressed confidence in Sudan’s qualification, citing Appiah’s leadership and experience as key factors. “I knew we would qualify ahead of Ghana and the other teams because we have James Kwasi Appiah, a man with vast experience,” Osei-Fosu stated on Asempa FM’s SportsNite Show.

He further praised Appiah for his notable achievements, including leading Ghana to the 2014 World Cup, where the team earned a historic draw against Germany. “That match was rated the best in the second round and even the entire tournament. Ghana vs USA was also the best match in the first round,” Osei-Fosu added.

In the qualifiers, Sudan drew 0-0 in the first leg against Ghana before securing a 2-0 victory in the second leg to seal their AFCON spot.

Black Stars Technical advisor disappointed with 2025 AFCON qualification failure

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 23:12:23 +0000

Newly appointed technical advisor for the Black Stars, Winfred Schaffer, has expressed disappointment over the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in two decades, the four-time African champions will miss out on the continent’s premier football event, having finished at the bottom of their group. Ghana managed just three points, with three defeats and three draws.

Reflecting on the Black Stars’ absence from the tournament, which is set to take place in Morocco later this year, the German coach—who led Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2002—shared his sadness.

“I am a good follower of African football due to my previous experience with Cameroon and my winning of the African Cup of Nations title, and I am sad about Ghana’s absence, and this is all I can say now,” he said in an interview as reported by AfricaSoccer.

In a bid to strengthen the technical team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has appointed Desmond Offei, the current head coach of Ghana’s U20 team, to the technical staff.

He replaces Joseph Lauman and will work alongside assistants John Paintsil and Fatawu Dauda, who remain under head coach Otto Addo.

Additionally, Kris Perquy and Gregory De Grauwe have joined the technical team as the team’s psychologist and video analyst, respectively.

The Black Stars will play their next competitive fixtures against Chad and Madagascar in March as part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

2025 AFCON: It does not speak well that Ghana failed to qualify – Kofi Adams

Samuel Appiah — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 12:30:25 +0000

Minister-designate for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has voiced his disappointment over the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in 20 years, Ghana’s senior national football team will miss out on Africa’s premier football tournament, which will take place in Morocco later this year.

The Black Stars ended their qualifying campaign at the bottom of Group F with just three points from six matches.

In a statement following the team’s failure, the Member of Parliament for the Buem constituency expressed concern, emphasizing that it reflects poorly on the four-time African champions.

“It doesn’t speak well that the African continent will meet for a football competition and Ghana isn’t there,” he told Sporty FM.

Looking ahead, the Black Stars now shift their focus to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will resume in March.

Ghana will face Chad and Madagascar in the upcoming Matchday five and six fixtures.

CAF announce match schedule for 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 11:55:10 +0000

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has announced the match schedule for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 that will see nine venues used across six cities for the continent’s greatest football show.

Morocco and Comoros will kick-off the tournament on 21 December, 2025 with a Group A fixture at the newly-built 69,500-seater Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, a fitting stage for the grand opening.

Rabat will have four match venues, with other host cities Casablanca, Agadir, Marrakech, Fes and Tangier to have one each.

The four quarter-final fixtures will be played at the Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat, as well as in Tangier, Marrakech and Agadir.

The semi-finals will be in Rabat and Tangier, with the third-place play-off set for the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.

There will be 52 matches over 29 days in a feast of football for fans that showcases the skill and passion of African football.

Morocco, hosting the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON for the first time since 1988, is also preparing to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2030.

2025 AFCON: Ghana’s failure to qualify is disappointing – Laryea Kingston

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 22:39:58 +0000

Former Black Starlets Head Coach, Laryea Kingston, Voices Frustration Over Ghana’s Failure to Qualify for 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)

Former Black Starlets head coach, Laryea Kingston, has voiced his frustration over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This marks the first time in two decades that the senior national team, coached by Otto Addo, will not compete in the prestigious tournament.

Ghana ended up in last place in Group F, earning just three points from three draws and three defeats during the qualifiers.

Ahead of the AFCON draw on Monday, Kingston, a former Ghana international, expressed his disappointment at the nation’s absence from the tournament.

“I am very disappointed that our beloved country Ghana did not qualify. One of the strongest countries in African football will not be participating in the AFCON in Morocco, and that is quite a disappointing moment for me,” he told Sporty FM.

Looking forward, the Black Stars will now turn their attention to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with upcoming matches against Chad and Madagascar set for March.

It hurts Ghana did not qualify for 2025 AFCON – Prince Tagoe

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 07:07:02 +0000

Former Ghana international Prince Tagoe has expressed his disappointment over the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For the first time in two decades, Ghana, a four-time AFCON champion, will not feature in the prestigious continental tournament after finishing last in Group F.

Their qualification campaign ended with three draws and three losses in six matches.

Tagoe, a former striker for Hearts of Oak, reflected on the team’s poor performance and acknowledged the disappointment surrounding their failure to qualify.

However, he emphasized the need for the team to regroup and focus on becoming stronger in the future.

“It is very sad because qualifying and playing at the AFCON is what every Ghanaian wants, and to an extent, the entire country. At every tournament, Ghana is always there, so if it happens that Ghana is not there, it is sad, but we have to prepare our minds and return stronger because we can do it,” he said on Sporty FM.

“It is hurting because everyone will be watching their country play, and Ghana is not there, so it is very sad,” he added.

While the Black Stars’ AFCON hopes were dashed, the team is now setting their sights on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which will resume in March with upcoming fixtures against Chad and Madagascar on Matchdays 5 and 6.

2025 AFCON: We will do well and make an impact – Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:53:47 +0000

Sudan head coach Kwesi Appiah has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to make a significant impact at the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to take place in Morocco later this year.

The Falcons of Jediane have been drawn into Group F, where they will face Algeria, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea.

Reacting to the tournament draw, the former Ghana coach emphasized that Sudan is ready to compete without fear.

“Sudan is in Group E, and all the teams there are really good. For me, if you are participating in a competition, your goal should always be to aim for the cup,” he said.

“If you’re afraid of any team, then why are you participating in the competition in the first place? I believe Sudan will perform very well, and I’m hopeful that, no matter the team we face, we will try our best to get a victory,” Appiah added.

The 2025 AFCON is set to kick off on Sunday, December 21, with the final scheduled for Sunday, January 18, 2026.

2025 AFCON: CAF and LOC announce host cities and venues

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:21:24 +0000

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) together with Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football and the Local Organizing Committee of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025 have announced the cities that will host matches in the competition.

Six cities and nine stadiums have been selected for Africa’s flagship football tournament, which will run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

They are Rabat, Casablanca, Agadir, Marrakech, Fes and Tangier.

Host Cities and Stadiums:

Host City	Stadium Name	Capacity
Rabat	Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah	69 500
Rabat	Stade Al Barid	18 000
Rabat	Stade Olympique Annexe Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah	21 000
Rabat	Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay EL Hassan	22 000
Casablanca	Complexe Sportif Mohammed V	45 000
Agadir	Grand Stade d’Agadir	41 144
Marrakech	Grand Stade de Marrakech	41 245
Fes	Complexe Sportif de Fès	35 468
Tangier	Grand Stade de Tanger	75 600

2025 AFCON final group confirmed [Full Draw]

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 06:22:38 +0000

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the final draw for the highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

On Monday night in Rabat, 24 nations discovered their group-stage opponents for Africa’s premier men’s football tournament. A total of 52 CAF member nations participated in the qualifiers, with only two failing to progress.

After a preliminary round, 48 teams were grouped into 12 groups of four, competing in home-and-away fixtures across six matchdays. The top two teams from each group secured their spots in the tournament.

The 2025 AFCON will take place across six cities over four weeks, with only one nation set to claim the title of champions of Africa. Below is a breakdown of the tournament details and the full group-stage draw:

2025 AFCON Group Stage Draw

Group A: Morocco (hosts), Mali, Zambia, Comoros
Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe
Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania
Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana
Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan
Group F: Ivory Coast (holders), Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique

Tournament Format and Schedule
The tournament kicks off on December 21, 2025, with group-stage matches running until December 31, excluding Christmas Day. The knockout stages will follow this schedule:

Round of 16: January 3–6, 2026
Quarter-finals: January 9–10, 2026
Semi-finals: January 14, 2026
Third-Place Playoff: January 17, 2026
Final: January 18, 2026

The stage is set for an electrifying competition as Africa’s best teams compete for continental glory.

I hope Ghana learns from AFCON qualification failure – Kwesi Appiah

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 14:19:58 +0000

Sudan head coach Kwesi Appiah expressed hope that Ghana will learn from its failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and come back stronger in future competitions.

Appiah, who also serves as an Executive Council member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), guided Sudan to a historic AFCON qualification despite the challenges posed by civil unrest in the country.

The Falcons of Jediane secured second place in their group with 8 points, overcoming the odds by defeating Ghana 2-0 in the return leg in Libya, following a goalless draw at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Meanwhile, Ghana failed to qualify for the AFCON for the first time in 21 years, ending their campaign without a single victory in the qualifiers.

“When the draw placed Ghana in our group, I did several interviews where I said I hoped both Ghana and Sudan would qualify. It’s unfortunate Ghana couldn’t make it,” Appiah told CAF. “As a Ghanaian, I’m not happy about that, but football has evolved, and every country needs to prepare well for competitions. I hope Ghana learns from this and comes back stronger in future tournaments.”

Appiah, who has previously captained and coached Ghana, has played a key role in instilling resilience in Sudan’s squad, transforming them into a symbol of hope.

Sudan will find out their group opponents later today, as the AFCON draw is set to take place tonight in Rabat.

2025 AFCON: Teams to discover opponents today at final draw

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:18:42 +0000

The stage is set at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Morocco, where 24 African football nations will learn their group stage opponents in the highly-anticipated Final Draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 on Monday.

The event, set for 19h00 local time (18h00 GMT), will reveal the group stage opponents for 24 teams competing for African football’s most coveted trophy.

The draw is more than just a formal procedure—it marks the symbolic beginning of Africa’s premier football competition, which will run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

With the mood across the continent reaching fever pitch, coaches, players, and fans are eager to find out who their teams will face in the group stage battles.

The 24 Competing Nations

The tournament features a blend of perennial powerhouses, rising stars, and debutants:

Pot 1: Morocco (hosts), Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire (defending champions)
Pot 2: Cameroon, Mali, Tunisia, South Africa, DR Congo, Burkina Faso
Pot 3: Gabon, Angola, Zambia, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Benin
Pot 4: Mozambique, Comoros, Tanzania, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Botswana

The diversity of teams promises a competition filled with contrasting styles and narratives.

Favourites and Underdogs

Host nation Morocco, returning to host the AFCON for the first time since 1988, will look to capitalize on their home advantage. The Atlas Lions, riding high on their historic 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinal run, are among the favourites.

Defending champions Côte d’Ivoire are also eyeing back-to-back triumphs after lifting the trophy on home soil just one year ago. Senegal, the 2021 winners, led by coach Pape Thiaw, are equally determined to make history.

Meanwhile, underdogs like Botswana, returning to the AFCON for only the second time since 2012, and Comoros, looking to replicate their surprise 2021 campaign, bring a unique edge to the tournament.

Record Holders and Dark Horses

The record champions Egypt, spearheaded by stars like Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, remain a formidable force. However, teams like Mali and Burkina Faso, often labeled as dark horses, could upset the traditional order with their talented squads.

Draw Mechanics

The draw will divide the 24 teams into six groups of four, with the top two in each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, advancing to the round of 16.

Morocco automatically occupies position A1 as hosts, while the rest of the teams are seeded based on their FIFA rankings.

A Star-Studded Evening

The Mohammed V National Theatre, inaugurated in 1961, is dressed for the occasion, showcasing Morocco’s elegance and cultural heritage.

The event will feature musical performances by internationally renowned artists like RedOne and Gims, celebrating the unity of sport and culture.

African football legends such as Essam El Hadary, Patrick Mboma, and Mustapha Hadji will grace the event, adding gravitas to the evening.

Broadcast live to over 90 countries on CAF’s platforms and global broadcasters, the AFCON 2025 draw symbolizes the unifying power of African football.

The tournament, scheduled from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, promises a showcase of talent, resilience, and passion as Africa’s finest compete for continental glory.

Everything you need to know about final draw of 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 09:13:59 +0000

The much-anticipated Final Draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 takes place today, Monday, 27 January 2025, at the iconic Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat.

The event will determine the group-stage opponents for the 24 qualified teams and is expected to provide plenty of drama, excitement, and anticipation across Africa.

Here is everything you know about the Final Draw for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025.

Key Details

Host Nation: Morocco
Host City: Rabat
Date: Monday, 27 January 2025
Time: 19:00 local time (18:00 GMT / 20:00 Cairo time)
Venue: Mohammed V National Theatre, a historic and cultural landmark in the heart of Rabat.
Edition: 35th
Competition Dates: 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026

Teams in the Draw

The 24 teams qualified for the tournament are:

Pot 1: Morocco (hosts), Senegal, Egypt, Algeria, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire
Pot 2: Cameroon, Mali, Tunisia, South Africa, DR Congo, Burkina Faso
Pot 3: Gabon, Angola, Zambia, Uganda, Equatorial Guinea, Benin
Pot 4: Mozambique, Comoros, Tanzania, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Botswana

Notably, 12 of the 24 teams have previously won the AFCON title, sharing an impressive total of 28 championships among them. Egypt is the record holder with seven titles, followed by Cameroon (five), and Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria (three each).

Draw Assistants

African legends Mustapha Hadji, Serge Aurier, Aliou Cisse and Joseph Yobo will be assistants at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 Final Draw.

Qualifying Highlights

Morocco: The hosts dominated Group B in the qualifiers with a perfect record (18 points), scoring 26 goals and conceding only two.
Algeria: Topped Group 5 with 16 points, scoring 16 goals and conceding two.
Senegal: Topped Group 12 with 16 points, scoring 10 goals and conceding just one.
Other teams like Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire, and Tunisia also impressed with solid performances.

Legends and Special Guests

The draw will feature several African football legends, including:

Essam El Hadary (Egypt): Record-breaking goalkeeper with four AFCON titles.
Patrick Mboma (Cameroon): Two-time AFCON champion and former African Footballer of the Year.
Gervinho (Côte d’Ivoire): 2015 AFCON winner.
Mustapha Hadji (Morocco): Iconic Moroccan playmaker and former star.

Draw Procedure

The 24 teams will be placed into six groups of four. The top two teams in each group, along with the four best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage.

Where to Watch the Draw

Fans worldwide can catch the action live on CAF TV (YouTube) and other major broadcasters such as beIN Sports, SuperSport, Canal+, and Azam TV, ensuring the event reaches over 90 countries.

A Historic Stage

The Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat has been adorned with the branding of the competition, reflecting the grandeur of the event. As Africa’s best prepare to learn their paths, the anticipation across the continent is at fever pitch.

The AFCON 2025 Final Draw promises to be an unforgettable moment in African football, setting the stage for Morocco to host the continent’s premier football tournament for the first time since 1988.

CAF and LOC reveal new logo fo 2025 AFCON tournament

Samuel Appiah — Sun, 26 Jan 2025 12:29:52 +0000

The countdown to Africa’s biggest event; the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, celebrated a milestone today with the unveiling of the official Logo for the competition in Rabat, Morocco.

The new logo, a modern and iconic symbol for African football, celebrates the heritage and unity of the African continent.

The TotalEnergies CAF AFCON finals, between 21 December 2025 and 18 January 2026 in Morocco, will be the latest chapter in the rich history of Africa’s greatest show and the logo for the tournament bridges the world of sport and art, and tells a story of pride, resilience and hope.

Inspired by Moroccan ‘’zellij’’, a timeless mosaic art form, the tournament logo redefines football as a canvas where creativity, precision and passion collide.

The TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025 logo reflects the synergy between tradition and modernity. Each pattern and shape symbolizes the unity of nations, players and fans, echoing how football and art come together to create something extraordinary.

Just as zellij pieces are meticulously crafted and assembled to form breathtaking designs, every moment in football builds toward a masterpiece of skill, teamwork and triumph.

The vibrant colors; gold for achievement, green for unity, red for resilience and blue for boundless potential, go beyond mere aesthetics. They embody the spirit of African football, representing the energy of the game, the strength of the players and the passion of the fans.

Merging the geometry of football with the intricate artistry of zellij, it captures the precision and movement of the game while honouring Africa’s cultural legacy. It is a celebration of African craftsmanship and the beauty of football’s dynamism.

TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025 will be a living gallery of African football, where every pass, goal and cheer from the fans contributes to the art of the game. It is more than a tournament, it is a stage where creativity, culture and sport come together to showcase Africa’s soul to the world.

2025 AFCON: Sudan Coach Kwesi Appiah says they are ready to face any side

Samuel Appiah — Sat, 25 Jan 2025 20:02:05 +0000

Sudan’s head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness to face any opponent in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

Despite ongoing civil unrest in the country, Sudan’s national team, the Falcons of Jediane, has secured a spot in the prestigious competition, set to take place in Morocco later this year.

Appiah, who masterminded Sudan’s qualification at the expense of his home country, Ghana, remains optimistic ahead of the tournament.

Speaking to CAF ahead of the group stage draw on January 27, he said: “Once you’ve qualified for AFCON, as a coach, I don’t think you should have any preferences regarding who you’re drawn against.

“We must be ready to face anyone. If you fear any team, then you shouldn’t participate in the competition at all. The key is preparation and confidence.”

Under Appiah’s leadership, the Falcons of Jediane finished second in Group F with 8 points. They now aim to make a significant impact in Morocco, inspired by their coach’s unwavering determination and strategic mindset.

GFA’s poor leadership cost Black Stars’ AFCON qualification – Abdul Salam Yakubu

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:06:44 +0000

Abdul Salam Yakubu, President of New Edubiase FC, has attributed the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to the ‘evil’ leadership of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

For the first time in two decades, Ghana, a four-time African champion, failed to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament, finishing at the bottom of Group F.

The Black Stars ended their qualifying campaign with three draws and three losses from six matches.

While many fans and pundits have pointed fingers at head coach Otto Addo for the team’s disappointing performance, Abdul Salam insists that the real fault lies with the GFA.

According to him, the association’s leadership has caused discontent within the football community, leading to the poor form of the national team.

“To me, Pep Guardiola is the best coach in the world, but he cannot handle the Black Stars. Otto Addo has done nothing wrong as coach of the national team,” he told Kessben FM.

He further criticized the state of Ghanaian football, pointing to deeper issues beyond the coaching staff.

“For our coach to celebrate an equalizing goal tells you our football has collapsed.

“Semenyo, Inaki, Kudus, and others are mature players. Otto Addo has nothing to teach them. Anyone can coach the Black Stars.”

He accused the GFA of fostering a toxic environment within Ghanaian football, claiming their actions have had a negative impact on the team’s performance.

“Otto Addo can’t be blamed for Black Stars AFCON qualification failure. We didn’t qualify because of evil leaders. They’ve really hurt people within the football fraternity. Their evil deeds are paying off,” he added.

Despite the disappointment, the Black Stars will have an opportunity to redeem themselves in March when they face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Morocco ready to set bar high as Host for 2025 African Cup of Nations

Samuel Appiah — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 10:20:55 +0000

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has expressed its full trust in Morocco’s ability to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025.

In a statement made on Tuesday, the organization pointed to Morocco’s strong track record in hosting some of the continent’s major football events.

CAF said Morocco was not a surprise choice as host, referring to their past hosting of the 2018 African Nations Championship, the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, and the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup.

Morocco hosted its first AFCON in 1988, a tournament in which only eight countries participated.

With 24 nations participating in 2025, the event reflects the strides African football has made over three decades.

Morocco will have several world-class facilities to host the tournament. The soon-to-be-announced official venues may include the Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca, the Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex in Rabat, and major stadiums in Tangier, Agadir, Marrakech, and Fez.

Many of these venues are being renovated to meet and exceed competition standards.

CAF commends Morocco’s modern infrastructure, enthusiastic football fans, and proven experience in hosting major sporting events. This is what CAF believes will make Morocco a good candidate for organizing an AFCON that sets a new standard.

The competition is to be held from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.

The tournament’s group stage draw is scheduled for next Monday at 7 p.m at Mohammed V Theatre.

Morocco, as the host nation, qualified automatically, while 23 other teams earned their places through qualifying rounds held between September and November 2024.

The lineup includes strong teams such as Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Nigeria, Egypt, and Algeria. Other nations, like Ghana and Guinea, failed to qualify.

GFA chief blames Black Stars players for 2025 AFCON qualification collapse

Samuel Appiah — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:12:49 +0000

Executive Council Member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Samuel Aboabire, has criticized the Black Stars for their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This marks the first time in 20 years that the senior national team has failed to qualify, finishing bottom of Group F with only three points from six matches.

In an interview, Aboabire, who also serves as the Greater Accra Regional FA chairman, expressed his frustration with the team’s inability to find the back of the net.

“The Black Stars’ inability to score simple goals contributed to our failure to qualify for the AFCON,” Aboabire told Amansan TV.

“These same players score difficult goals for their clubs in Europe. I hope that when they return for the World Cup qualifiers, they will deliver the goals we need,” he added.

With the AFCON qualification campaign now behind them, Ghana’s focus will shift to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they will face Chad and Madagascar in March later this year.

Samuel Aboabire

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2025 AFCON: Kwesi Appiah aims to lead Sudan to glory

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 19:15:46 +0000

Kwesi Appiah has expressed his determination to clinch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title with Sudan.

The Falcons of Jediane earned their spot in the prestigious tournament by finishing second in Group F during the qualifiers.

Despite the challenges posed by the absence of an active domestic league in Sudan, Appiah’s squad outperformed Ghana and Niger, securing a place behind group leaders Angola.

With the tournament set to take place in December 2025, the former Ghana head coach has set his sights on guiding Sudan to their first AFCON triumph.

“Winning the trophy is my goal,” said Appiah in an interview with Akoma FM.

“By God’s grace, we have qualified. We will prepare thoroughly to ensure we have a strong team before the AFCON.

“Once you’re in, you aim for the cup rather than coming out with nothing,” he added.

The 2025 AFCON is scheduled to kick off on December 21, 2025, with the official draw set for January 25 in Rabat, Morocco.

Sudan will now focus on assembling a competitive team to make their mark on the continental stage.

The guns were dropped after AFCON 2025 qualification – Sudan coach Kwasi Appiah

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 19:32:26 +0000

Sudan head coach, Kwasi Appiah, has revealed that his team’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) brought moments of peace and joy to a nation plagued by unrest.

According to Appiah, the achievement momentarily united the Sudanese people, with celebrations replacing conflict.

Sudan’s home games had to be played on neutral grounds due to ongoing turmoil.

Despite these obstacles, Appiah guided the Falcons of Jediane to secure second place in Group F with eight points, ensuring their spot in the AFCON tournament.

Recalling the aftermath of their qualification, Appiah told BBC Africa: “After the qualification, we went to the Sudanese embassy, and the ambassador said, ‘Everybody had their guns down, and they were all jubilating on the streets.’”

Appiah highlighted the profound impact of football in conflict zones, saying, “Football is one of the keys that can unlock such wars,” he added.

The team’s journey to qualification has been a testament to resilience. Many players have endured personal losses amid the chaos, but Appiah inspired them to channel their struggles into motivation.

“Look at your relatives back home, what they’re going through, and let’s put some smiles on their faces,” he urged.

Sudan’s success extends beyond the AFCON qualifiers. The team currently leads Group B in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with an impressive 10 points, showcasing their determination to rise above adversity.

Kwesi Appiah calls for Ghana FA to reflect on Black Stars’ 2025 AFCON failure

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 19:09:47 +0000

Former Ghana coach, Kwesi Appiah has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to conduct a thorough analysis of the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This marks the first time in 20 years that Ghana will miss out on Africa’s premier football tournament, finishing last in Group F with just three points from six matches.

Appiah, a member of the GFA’s Executive Committee, expressed his disappointment and emphasized the need for a critical review of Ghanaian football.

“It’s really unfortunate because everybody thought Ghana will have qualified,” Appiah, who doubles as head coach of Sudan told BBC Africa.

“In 2014, I was taking Ghana to the World Cup in Brazil, and I made a statement that football is coming of age.

“The whole FA needs to sit down and analyse and check what is really going on.”

Appiah revealed that, he stepped aside from his role as an FA executive due to a conflict of interest, as he is currently coaching Sudan.

“I was an executive member of the Ghana FA and while Ghana was involved with our group, I was told to step aside because of a conflict of interest, and I did.

“I need to be 100% professional and make sure the country I’m coaching qualify [for] either the Afcon or the World Cup.”

He also expressed understanding for the challenges faced by Ghana’s current head coach, Otto Addo.

“Once you take that job, you need to add that pressure on top of it. Ghana not going to Afcon is a big, big, big deal.”

Kwesi Appiah remains a notable figure in Ghanaian football, remembered for guiding the Black Stars to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Ghana’s failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON is sad – Burkina Faso forward

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 15:05:22 +0000

Burkina Faso forward, Ousseni Bouda expressed his disappointment over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The Black Stars endured a historic setback, finishing last in Group F and failing to win a single game during the qualifiers—a first in the team’s history.

Bouda, who spent four formative years in Ghana with the Right to Dream Academy, acknowledged Ghana’s rich football legacy and shared his dismay at their absence from the prestigious tournament.

Ousseni Bouda

“I was following every game and I watched it closely as well. I’m really sad that Ghana is not going to be able to participate. Especially when you think of the history of African football, Ghana has always been a giant, and you sort of expect to see Ghana at every AFCON,” he told Flashscore in an interview.

During his time at the academy, Bouda honed his skills alongside future stars like Mohammed Kudus, Abu Francis, Mohamed Diomande, and Ibrahim Sadiq.

The shared experience not only fostered lifelong friendships but also shaped their collective ambitions.

Reflecting on Ghana’s absence, the 24-year-old forward admitted it would have been special to compete against his former teammates on the continental stage.

“I was really hoping to see Ghana and then maybe hopefully play against some of these guys that I grew up with at Right to Dream. But I know that Ghana would bounce back because there’s a lot of potential and I hope they can figure things out.”

Bouda, now playing for the San Jose Earthquakes, contributed one goal for Burkina Faso during the qualifiers.

He remains optimistic about representing the Stallions in Morocco next December, eager to make an impact at the AFCON.

It’s a shame – Majeed Waris on Black Stars failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 12:15:11 +0000

Former Black Stars striker, Majeed Waris has expressed deep disappointment over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing it as a “big shame.”

For the first time in 20 years, the senior national team will miss out on Africa’s most prestigious football tournament.

Ghana ended their qualification campaign at the bottom of Group F with just three points, managing three draws and three losses in six matches.

This poor showing has sparked widespread criticism, with many fans demanding the overhaul of the technical team led by Otto Addo.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Waris, who previously played a key role for the Black Stars, lamented the team’s dismal performance.

“For a player who has played the national team and knows what it means for the whole of the country to qualify for the AFCON, it is a shame to all of us and I believe something must be done about it,” he said.

He further noted that the full impact of Ghana’s absence will be felt when other nations arrive for the tournament and the celebratory atmosphere unfolds.

“Everyone is hurt but we will not feel it that much now but rather when the countries are arriving for the tournament and with the joy that comes with it, that is when we will feel the pain more for not qualifying.

“We are all not happy with what has happened but we have to look at how we can qualify for the next edition of the AFCON,” he added.

The 2025 AFCON will take place in Morocco next year.

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Date for 2025 AFCON draw revealed by CAF

Samuel Appiah — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 15:22:58 +0000

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the date for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) draw.

After a meeting of the CAF Executive Office in Marrakech on Monday, December 16, it was revealed that the draw will take place on January 27, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco.

The AFCON qualifiers concluded in November 2025, with 24 teams securing their spots in the tournament.

The competition will kick off on December 21, 2025, with the opening match, and will conclude with the final on January 18, 2026.

The 24 teams that qualified for the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025 include:

Morocco (Hosts)
Burkina Faso
Cameroon
Algeria
DR Congo
Senegal
Egypt
Angola
Equatorial Guinea
Ivory Coast
Uganda
South Africa
Gabon
Tunisia
Nigeria
Zambia
Mali
Zimbabwe
Comoros
Sudan
Benin
Tanzania
Botswana
Mozambique

In addition, CAF outlined the schedules for major youth tournaments. The U17 Africa Cup of Nations will be hosted by Morocco in 2025 and 2026, while the U20 edition will take place in Ivory Coast in 2025.

The schedules for other key CAF competitions were also confirmed, with finals for both the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup scheduled for May and June 2025.

Key Dates:

U17 Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025: Opening Match – Sunday, March 30, 2025; Final – Saturday, April 19, 2025.
U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Côte d’Ivoire 2025: Opening Match – Saturday, April 26, 2025; Final – Sunday, May 18, 2025.
CAF Confederation Cup 2024-25: Final, First Leg – Saturday, May 17, 2025; Final, Second Leg – Sunday, May 25, 2025.
CAF Champions League 2024-25: Final, First Leg – Saturday, May 24, 2025; Final, Second Leg – Sunday, June 1, 2025.
CAF Women’s Champions League 2025: Opening Match – Saturday, November 8, 2025; Final – Sunday, November 23, 2025.
Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025: Opening Match – Sunday, December 21, 2025; Final – Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Sudan coach Kwesi Appiah reveals target ahead of 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 21:00:49 +0000

Sudan head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has expressed his determination to make the nation proud as the team prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Appiah, a former Ghana national team coach, led the Falcons of Jediane to secure their place in Africa’s premier football tournament by finishing second in Group F with 8 points.

Despite playing their home matches on neutral grounds due to an ongoing civil war, Sudan managed two wins, two draws, and two losses in the qualifiers.

Looking ahead to the competition, Appiah is optimistic about Sudan’s chances.

“For me, once we have been able to qualify, there is nothing we cannot do and I believe with the help of God, we will do well to ensure we do not embarrass ourselves but rather play to honour the country,” he told Asempa FM‘s Ultimate Sports Show.

Sudan’s only AFCON title came in 1970 when they hosted the tournament. Since then, their performances have been modest, with just one advancement beyond the group stage and participation in only three of the last 24 editions.

The 2025 AFCON will take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, offering Sudan a chance to make a significant impact on the continental stage.

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It is unfortunate – Kwesi Appiah reacts to Black Stars’ AFCON failure

Samuel Appiah — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 22:41:19 +0000

Sudan head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has expressed disappointment over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), calling it an unfortunate outcome.

For the first time in 20 years, the Black Stars, four-time African champions, missed out on the prestigious tournament.

Under the leadership of Otto Addo, Ghana ended their qualification campaign without a win, registering three draws and three losses. They finished at the bottom of Group F with just three points.

In an interview, Appiah, who has previously coached Ghana during two separate stints, acknowledged the setback but emphasized the need to draw lessons from the experience.

“From the beginning, I said only two teams will qualify, and it was just unfortunate that Ghana was not able to go,” he said.

“But sometimes things happen that you learn from, and you make sure it doesn’t repeat itself again. That’s life and that’s football. If certain things don’t go well, you sit down and think about how to make it better,” he added.

While Ghana faces the disappointment of missing out, Appiah has successfully led Sudan to qualify for the AFCON tournament.

Sudan will join Angola, the Group F winners, in Morocco, where the competition is set to be hosted.

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GFA’s poor decision making ruined Ghana’s AFCON chances – Augustine Ahinful

Samuel Appiah — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:36:44 +0000

Former Ghana international, Augustine Ahinful has pointed the finger at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The national team endured a dismal campaign in the qualifiers, recording three draws and three defeats over six matches. This poor performance has led to widespread criticism of head coach Otto Addo, with calls for his dismissal growing louder.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Ahinful expressed his disappointment in the GFA’s decision-making, arguing that the Association has failed to hire the best possible coaches for the team.

He believes this oversight contributed significantly to Ghana’s missed qualification.

“If they [GFA] had [hired the best of coaches], we wouldn’t be here. [I’m not saying] the people they hired are the worst. But if they did hire [the best coaches] and put proper structures in place we might probably would have qualified [for the AFCON].”

He pointed out that while Otto Addo is competent, a more strategic approach could have led to a better outcome.

“Otto Addo is always conscious in his approach to the game. I always see him play two defensive midfielders being it playing away games or home games. So I would advise playing away because you are not too sure you can play two defensive midfielders, but when you are at home, you must be offensive,” he added.

The GFA’s Executive Council has yet to make a decision on Otto Addo’s future following a lengthy meeting last week, held in the wake of the Black Stars’ failure to reach the AFCON.

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History will not forgive us – GFA reacts to Black Stars’ failure to qualify for 2025 AFCON

Samuel Appiah — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 04:22:28 +0000

Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum has said the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will be a lasting stain on their record.

For the first time in 20 years, the four-time AFCON champions failed to secure a place in the tournament, finishing last in Group F with only three points.

The team managed three draws and suffered three losses in their six matches.

In light of Ghana’s inability to qualify for the upcoming competition set to take place in Morocco, Asante Twum acknowledged the lasting impact this failure will have on the GFA’s current leadership.

Henry Asante Twum

“It’s not been easy especially when history will not forgive you. In 2004 when we didn’t qualify for the AFCON, it’s always been the reference point…,” Asante Twum told JoySports.

“Twenty years down the line, we fail to qualify, and it is during a time when some of us are at the helm of affairs. History will not forgive us; [Not qualifying for the AFCON] will always hang around our necks, which is a difficult thing to take around this time.

However, Asante Twum emphasized the importance of moving forward, despite the setback.

“But at the end of the day, we have to move on. We are a powerful football nation, there are difficulties around this time, we have to sieve the seal and pick the positives.”

The Black Stars’ next challenge comes in March 2025, when the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers resume. They will face Chad and Madagascar in their upcoming matches.

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