AFCON 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to the Tournament, Key Fixtures, and How to Watch Every Match Live
The wait is over. The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off this Sunday in Morocco, promising a month of electrifying football, intense rivalries, and unforgettable drama. As the continent’s finest players and most passionate fans converge, this tournament is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of African football’s rich culture and growing global stature. This guide provides everything you need to know, from the crucial opening fixtures to how you can watch every single match.
The Stage is Set in Morocco
Hosting for the second time, Morocco provides a world-class backdrop for AFCON 2025. The nation’s modern stadiums and footballing infrastructure set the stage for a tournament that aims to showcase the technical and tactical evolution of the African game. The opening match on Sunday sees the Atlas Lions, spearheaded by stars like Achraf Hakimi and Sofyan Amrabat, face Comoros at 8:00 PM local time. As hosts and semi-finalists in the last two World Cups, Morocco carries the weight of expectation, aiming to win their first AFCON title since 1976.
Opening Week: Must-Watch Fixtures and Key Storylines
The first three days are packed with matches that will set the tone for the entire tournament. Here’s a breakdown of the key encounters:
Monday, December 23: Heavyweights Enter the Fray
The action continues with a triple-header. Mali vs. Zambia (3:00 PM) offers a clash of robust, physical styles. Later, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, fresh from their 2023 semi-final run, meet Angola (6:00 PM) in a tactical battle. The day culminates with a blockbuster as seven-time champions Egypt, led by the iconic Mohamed Salah, begin their quest to end a 13-year title drought against Zimbabwe (9:00 PM). All eyes will be on Salah’s form and Egypt’s new generation.
Tuesday, December 24: Super Eagles Soar and Champions Defend
This day belongs to the fans. The headline act is Nigeria’s Super Eagles opening their campaign against Tanzania at 6:30 PM. With a squad brimming with attacking talent like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze, Nigeria is under pressure to start strongly in a Group C considered favourable. However, Tanzania, under experienced guidance, will be no pushovers, making this a fascinating tactical test for new coach Finidi George.
The day also features the defending champions, Senegal. The Teranga Lions, still powered by the legendary Sadio Mané, face Botswana at 4:00 PM as they begin their title defense, aiming to become the first nation to win back-to-back AFCONs since Egypt in 2010.
Wednesday, December 25: A Festive Football Feast
Christmas Day delivers a football feast. The first round concludes with four compelling matches: Burkina Faso vs. Equatorial Guinea (1:30 PM), Algeria vs. Sudan (4:00 PM), a tantalizing clash between 2023 winners Ivory Coast and Mozambique (6:30 PM), and a heavyweight West African derby as Cameroon clashes with Gabon (9:00 PM).
Beyond the Pitch: The AFCON Drama Unfolds
True to its nature, AFCON 2025 has already generated headlines before a ball is kicked. [[PEAI_MEDIA_X]]
The Cameroon Saga: The Indomitable Lions are once again in the spotlight, not for their football, but for reported internal disputes over squad selection. This recurring theme highlights the immense pressure and political complexities often surrounding national team call-ups, adding an extra layer of intrigue to their campaign.
A Notable Absence: In a stunning turn of events, four-time champions Ghana failed to qualify. The absence of the Black Stars, one of Africa’s most storied football nations, is a seismic shock. It underscores the increasing competitiveness of the qualifiers and provides fresh fodder for debate across the continent about the state of their football.
How to Watch Every Moment: SuperSport’s Comprehensive Coverage
For fans across Africa and beyond, not missing a moment is paramount. SuperSport has committed to broadcasting all 52 matches of AFCON 2025 live. Here’s your essential viewing guide:
Dedicated AFCON Channel: SuperSport will launch a dedicated AFCON pop-up channel for wall-to-wall coverage, including pre-match analysis, live games, and post-match reviews. You can find it on DStv channel 202 and GOtv channel 59.
Open Access Period: In a major win for fans, SuperSport is running an Open Access period for the tournament. This means subscribers on DStv Yanga and GOtv Jolli packages (and above) can watch all AFCON matches without needing to upgrade their existing subscription. This initiative ensures the tournament reaches the widest possible audience.
Festive Football Bonanza: With an active subscription, viewers can also enjoy a seamless transition between AFCON and top European football throughout the festive period, including the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, making SuperSport the ultimate hub for football fans this December.
AFCON 2025 is poised to be a tournament of technical quality, raw passion, and unpredictable narratives. From Morocco’s host ambitions to Nigeria’s attacking flair and Senegal’s title defense, the stories are compelling. With comprehensive live coverage ensuring you don’t miss a kick, the stage is set for a truly unforgettable African football spectacle.