Afcon 2025: Salah and Morocco Eye Glory in the Host Nation Showpiece
As Afcon 2025 opens in Morocco, Mohamed Salah and the hosts chase Africa's top prize in a dramatic mid-season showpiece.
Afcon 2025 kicks off in Morocco, bringing Africa’s top teams to a mid-season showdown. The host nation aims to win on home soil, while Mohamed Salah and Egypt chase the continent’s premier prize for the first time in years.
Morocco expects
The Atlas Lions enter as favorites thanks to home advantage and a string of solid results. They sit high in Africa's rankings after a standout World Cup run, but their current form will be tested by pressure to deliver on home soil. Coach Walid Regragui must manage expectations and keep players fresh for the knockout rounds.
Ticket sales were brisk and fans flood Rabat with optimism for a first Afcon title since 1976. Even if captain Achraf Hakimi cannot play every match, the squad has depth and energy to push deep into the tournament.
Amid the electric atmosphere, the team stresses playing with heart and intensity to maximise quality and reach the late stages.
Build-up challenges
The mid-season timing has again unsettled European clubs. FIFA allows a seven-day release window before the finals, instead of the usual 14 days, triggering concerns for teams with crowded schedules. Mali coach Tom Saintfiet described the change as catastrophic, arguing it undermines preparation. Comoros had to trim a training camp ahead of their opener against Morocco.
CAF defends the schedule as a financial necessity to keep Africa’s flagship competition alive, providing steady revenue to reinvest in the sport.
Other contenders
Besides Morocco, teams like South Africa and Algeria look ready to challenge. Cameroon faced upheaval after president Samuel Eto'o dismissed coach Marc Brys and left out key players. Sudan qualified despite playing all qualifiers away due to civil war, while Botswana, Mozambique, and Tanzania chase their first Afcon wins.
With 12 former champions in the field, a first-time winner remains unlikely, but the tournament is known for its shocks.
Outlook
The competition’s mid-season format, passionate crowds, and diverse styles promise a compelling spectacle. Morocco’s hosting position adds both pressure and opportunity as fans hope to witness a historic home title.
Expert comment: Analysts say the mid-season format tests squad depth and the ability to peak at the right moment. Teams that balance rest, rotation, and intensity have the best chance to advance far.
Summary: Afcon 2025 blends home advantage with star power and surprises. Morocco carries high expectations, while Salah’s Egypt remains hopeful for a long-awaited trophy. The tournament is set to deliver dramatic matches and memorable upsets.
Key insight: Afcon 2025 is set to deliver drama and surprises, with Morocco as hosts and global stars guiding campaigns. BBC
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