Africa Cup of Nations Fixtures: The Complete 2025/2026 Tournament Guide

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025/2026 fixtures officially concluded with the final on January 18, 2026, held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. The tournament featured 24 national teams competing in 52 matches across six host cities, beginning with the opening match on December 21, 2025. Senegal emerged as the champions of the 35th edition, defeating the host nation Morocco 1–0 after extra time in a dramatic finale.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find a complete breakdown of every fixture from the group stages to the knockout rounds, including final scores, venues, and key match details. Whether you are looking for specific group results or the path the finalists took to reach the showpiece event, this authoritative schedule provides everything you need to know about the most prestigious footballing event on the African continent.

Tournament Overview and Dates

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations was unique as it was the first edition played during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter festive period, spanning from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. This scheduling adjustment was made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to avoid conflicts with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup.

Morocco hosted the competition across nine world-class stadiums in six cities: Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Agadir, Marrakech, and Fes. The tournament served as a vital precursor to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, showcasing the depth and competitive parity of African football.

Group A Fixtures and Results

Morocco vs Comoros

The tournament opened on December 21, 2025, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat with the host nation securing a 2–0 victory. This match set the tone for Morocco’s campaign, fueled by an electric home crowd and early tactical dominance.

Mali vs Zambia

Played on December 22, 2025, at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca, this fixture ended in a 1–1 draw. Both teams struggled to find a decisive breakthrough, resulting in a shared point that kept the group wide open.

Zambia vs Comoros

On December 26, 2025, Zambia and Comoros played out a tactical 0–0 stalemate in Casablanca. This result was historic for Comoros, who managed to hold the 2012 champions to a draw through disciplined defensive organization.

Morocco vs Mali

The headline fixture of Group A took place on December 26, 2025, resulting in a 1–1 draw in Rabat. A high-intensity match saw both sides trade goals, leaving Morocco at the top of the table on goal difference heading into the final day.

Comoros vs Mali

The final round of Group A fixtures on December 29, 2025, saw Comoros and Mali draw 0–0 in Casablanca. This result allowed Mali to secure their progression to the knockout stages as the group runners-up.

Zambia vs Morocco

Morocco confirmed their status as group winners on December 29, 2025, with a convincing 3–0 win over Zambia in Rabat. This match featured standout performances from Brahim Díaz and Achraf Hakimi, cementing Morocco’s role as favorites.

Group B Fixtures and Results

South Africa vs Angola

The Group B action started on December 22, 2025, at the Marrakesh Stadium, where South Africa earned a 2–1 victory. Late goals from the Bafana Bafana forwards secured a crucial three points against a resilient Angolan side.

Egypt vs Zimbabwe

On the same day, December 22, 2025, Egypt defeated Zimbabwe 2–1 at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir. Mohamed Salah provided the winning spark with a late goal to ensure the record seven-time champions started their campaign perfectly.

Angola vs Zimbabwe

Angola and Zimbabwe played to a 1–1 draw on December 26, 2025, in Marrakech. The point kept both teams’ hopes alive for a third-place qualification spot, though it left them trailing the group leaders.

Egypt vs South Africa

In one of the most anticipated group matches, Egypt edged past South Africa 1–0 on December 26, 2025, in Agadir. A first-half penalty was enough to separate the two sides and secure Egypt’s early qualification.

Angola vs Egypt

The final matchday on December 29, 2025, saw Angola hold Egypt to a 0–0 draw in Agadir. Despite heavy pressure from the Egyptian attack, the Angolan defense remained impenetrable, earning a valuable point.

Zimbabwe vs South Africa

South Africa secured second place in the group with a thrilling 3–2 win over Zimbabwe on December 29, 2025, in Marrakech. The match was a highlight of the group stage, featuring multiple lead changes before South Africa’s late winner.

Group C Fixtures and Results

Nigeria vs Tanzania

Nigeria opened their Group C campaign on December 23, 2025, with a 2–1 win over Tanzania at the Fez Stadium. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman provided the goals to overcome an early scare from the Taifa Stars.

Tunisia vs Uganda

Tunisia dominated their opening fixture against Uganda on December 23, 2025, winning 3–1 in Rabat. The Carthage Eagles showed superior technical ability, scoring two goals in the first half to settle the contest early.

Uganda vs Tanzania

The East African derby on December 27, 2025, ended in a 1–1 draw at the Al Barid Stadium. Both teams showcased immense physicality, but neither could find the winning goal in a match dominated by midfield battles.

Nigeria vs Tunisia

Nigeria took control of the group on December 27, 2025, by defeating Tunisia 3–2 in Fez. This high-scoring affair saw Nigeria’s attacking trio overwhelm the Tunisian defense, despite a late fightback from the North Africans.

Uganda vs Nigeria

Nigeria completed a perfect group stage on December 30, 2025, with a 3–1 victory over Uganda in Fez. The Super Eagles showcased their squad depth, resting key players while still maintaining a high level of performance.

Tanzania vs Tunisia

The final Group C game on December 30, 2025, ended 1–1 in Rabat. The result was enough to see Tunisia advance as the group runners-up, while Tanzania bowed out of the competition after a brave display.

Group D Fixtures and Results

DR Congo vs Benin

The Group D opener on December 23, 2025, at the Al Barid Stadium saw DR Congo secure a 1–0 win. A clinical finish in the first half was the difference in a match characterized by heavy defensive blocks.

Senegal vs Botswana

The defending champions, Senegal, started with a 3–0 win over Botswana on December 23, 2025, in Tangier. Nicolas Jackson and Iliman Ndiaye were among the scorers in a match that demonstrated the Teranga Lions’ clinical edge.

Benin vs Botswana

Benin kept their qualification hopes alive on December 27, 2025, with a 1–0 win over Botswana in Rabat. This result set up a high-stakes final day for the Cheetahs against the group leaders.

Senegal vs DR Congo

The clash between the group’s heavyweights on December 27, 2025, ended in a 1–1 draw in Tangier. Sadio Mané rescued a point for Senegal with a late equalizer after DR Congo had taken a surprise lead.

Botswana vs DR Congo

DR Congo secured their place in the knockouts with a 3–0 win over Botswana on December 30, 2025, in Rabat. The Leopards dominated from start to finish, ensuring they finished as one of the top seeds in the group.

Benin vs Senegal

Senegal topped Group D on December 30, 2025, by defeating Benin 3–0 in Tangier. The victory ensured Senegal maintained an unbeaten record heading into the Round of 16.

Group E Fixtures and Results

Burkina Faso vs Equatorial Guinea

Burkina Faso snatched a 2–1 win against Equatorial Guinea on December 24, 2025, in Casablanca. Two late goals in stoppage time turned the match on its head and gave the Stallions a perfect start.

Algeria vs Sudan

Algeria cruised to a 3–0 victory over Sudan on December 24, 2025, at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat. Riyad Mahrez scored twice as the Fennec Foxes signaled their intent to reclaim the continental title.

Equatorial Guinea vs Sudan

In a vital bottom-of-the-table clash on December 28, 2025, Sudan defeated Equatorial Guinea 1–0 in Casablanca. An unfortunate own goal decided the match, providing Sudan with their first win of the tournament.

Algeria vs Burkina Faso

Algeria maintained their perfect record with a 1–0 win over Burkina Faso on December 28, 2025, in Rabat. A disciplined defensive performance ensured that Mahrez’s first-half penalty was enough to secure all three points.

Equatorial Guinea vs Algeria

Algeria finished the group stage with a 3–1 win over Equatorial Guinea on December 31, 2025, in Rabat. Despite an early scare, the Algerians recovered to finish as Group E winners with nine points.

Sudan vs Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso secured the second spot in Group E with a 2–0 win over Sudan on December 31, 2025, in Casablanca. The Stallions were efficient in their finishing, capitalizing on Sudan’s defensive errors.

Group F Fixtures and Results

Côte d’Ivoire vs Mozambique

The defending champions of the 2023 edition, Côte d’Ivoire, began with a 1–0 win over Mozambique on December 24, 2025, in Marrakech. Amad Diallo’s second-half strike was the only goal in a tightly contested match.

Cameroon vs Gabon

Cameroon edged past Gabon 1–0 on December 24, 2025, in Agadir. The Indomitable Lions relied on their physical presence to weather an early storm from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and the Gabonese attack.

Gabon vs Mozambique

Mozambique caused a major upset by defeating Gabon 3–2 on December 28, 2025, in Agadir. This result was one of the highlights of the group stage, keeping Mozambique in contention for the knockouts.

Côte d’Ivoire vs Cameroon

The heavyweights of Group F played out a 1–1 draw on December 28, 2025, in Marrakech. Both teams displayed a cautious approach, prioritizing defensive solidity over attacking risk.

Gabon vs Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire secured their progression with a 3–2 win over Gabon on December 31, 2025, in Marrakech. A late goal in the 91st minute ensured the Elephants finished at the top of a very competitive group.

Mozambique vs Cameroon

Cameroon survived a scare to defeat Mozambique 2–1 on December 31, 2025, in Agadir. The win allowed the Indomitable Lions to leapfrog Mozambique into the second automatic qualification spot.

Knockout Stage: Round of 16

The Round of 16 took place between January 3 and January 6, 2026. This stage saw several titans clash, with the following results:

• Senegal 3–1 Sudan: The Teranga Lions comfortably dispatched Sudan in Tangier, with Pape Gueye scoring twice.
• Mali 1–1 Tunisia (3–2 on pens): A dramatic encounter in Casablanca saw Mali progress via a penalty shootout after a grueling 120 minutes.
• Morocco 1–0 Tanzania: The hosts relied on a Brahim Díaz goal to overcome a stubborn Tanzanian defense in Rabat.
• South Africa 1–2 Cameroon: Cameroon’s experience told as they came from behind to eliminate Bafana Bafana in Agadir.
• Egypt 3–1 Benin: Mohamed Salah inspired the Pharaohs to a victory after extra time in Agadir.
• Nigeria 4–0 Mozambique: Nigeria produced the performance of the round, with Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen leading the rout in Fez.
• Algeria 1–0 DR Congo: A 119th-minute strike from Adil Boulbina saw Algeria advance in a defensive masterclass in Rabat.
• Côte d’Ivoire 3–0 Burkina Faso: The Elephants showed their championship pedigree with a clinical win in Marrakech.

Knockout Stage: Quarter-Finals

The Quarter-finals were held on January 9 and January 10, 2026. The tension reached new heights as only four teams remained in the hunt for the trophy:

• Mali 0–1 Senegal: Senegal’s defense remained firm as they secured a narrow win in Tangier to reach the semi-finals.
• Cameroon 0–2 Morocco: Morocco delighted the home fans in Rabat with a professional performance, ending Cameroon’s journey.
• Algeria 0–2 Nigeria: In a clash of giants, Nigeria’s pace on the break was too much for Algeria to handle in Marrakech.
• Egypt 3–2 Côte d’Ivoire: This classic match in Agadir saw Egypt eliminate the previous champions in a five-goal thriller.

Semi-Finals and Third-Place Playoff

Semi-Final 1: Senegal 1–0 Egypt

On January 14, 2026, Senegal defeated Egypt in a repeat of the 2021 final. Sadio Mané scored the decisive goal in the 78th minute to send the Teranga Lions to their second final in three editions.

Semi-Final 2: Nigeria 0–0 Morocco (2–4 on pens)

In front of a sold-out Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Morocco overcame Nigeria in a penalty shootout after a scoreless 120 minutes. Yassine Bounou was the hero, saving two penalties to send the hosts to the final.

Third-Place Playoff: Egypt 0–0 Nigeria (0–3 on pens)

On January 17, 2026, Nigeria secured the bronze medal by defeating Egypt in a penalty shootout. Nigeria’s clinical finishing from the spot contrasted with Egypt’s fatigue following multiple extra-time matches.

The Grand Final: Senegal vs Morocco

The final of the AFCON 2025/2026 was held on January 18, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. In a match of tactical brilliance and high stakes, Senegal defeated Morocco 1–0.

The only goal of the game came in the 94th minute of extra time from Pape Gueye, who was later named Man of the Match. The victory secured Senegal’s second continental title, while Morocco fell just short of their first trophy since 1976. The match was also notable for a surprise appearance by the tournament mascot, “Assad,” who was revealed to be the global internet personality IShowSpeed, adding a viral moment to the historic occasion.

Practical Information and Planning

Host Cities and Venues

The tournament was spread across Morocco to ensure accessibility and high-quality infrastructure.

• Rabat: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium & Moulay Hassan Stadium.
• Casablanca: Stade Mohammed V.
• Tangier: Ibn Batouta Stadium.
• Agadir: Adrar Stadium.
• Marrakech: Marrakesh Stadium.
• Fes: Fez Stadium.

Ticket Prices

Tickets were categorized into three tiers to accommodate different budgets:

• Group Stage: $10 – $50
• Knockout Rounds: $20 – $60
• Semi-Finals/Final: $30 – $90

Getting Around Morocco

Morocco’s ONCF rail network, including the high-speed Al Boraq train, provided the primary means of transport between host cities. The journey from Rabat to Tangier takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, with tickets priced between $15 and $25. Within cities, “Petit Taxis” remain the most efficient way to reach stadiums, typically costing between $2 and $5 per ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations?

Senegal won the 2025 AFCON by defeating Morocco 1–0 in the final held on January 18, 2026. This was their second continental title.

Where were the 2025 AFCON fixtures played? 

The matches were played in Morocco across six host cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Marrakech, Agadir, and Fes.

When is the next Africa Cup of Nations? 

The next edition, AFCON 2027, will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda and is scheduled for June–July 2027.

How many teams competed in the 2025 fixtures? 

A total of 24 national teams participated in the tournament, divided into six groups of four.

Who was the top scorer of the 2025 tournament?

Brahim Díaz (Morocco) and Victor Osimhen (Nigeria) were among the leading scorers, with Díaz scoring five goals throughout the competition.

What was the official match ball for the 2025 AFCON? 

The official ball was named “Itri” (meaning “star” in the Amazigh language), developed by PUMA and CAF.

Can I still buy tickets for the matches? 

No, the 2025/2026 tournament has concluded. Tickets for the 2027 edition will typically go on sale six months before the start of the tournament.

Which stadium hosted the AFCON 2025 final? 

The final was held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, which has a capacity of approximately 69,500.

Is the AFCON moving every four years? 

Yes, CAF announced in December 2025 that the tournament will shift to a quadrennial (every four years) format starting from 2028 to align with the European Championships.

Who was the Man of the Match in the final?

Pape Gueye of Senegal was named Man of the Match for his winning goal and dominant midfield performance.

How can I watch AFCON highlights? 

Official highlights are available on the CAF YouTube channel and through authorized broadcasters like beIN SPORTS and SuperSport.

Final Thoughts

As the dust settles on the Africa Cup of Nations 2025/2026, the tournament leaves behind a legacy of modernization and record-breaking achievements. Senegal’s triumph in Rabat was not just a victory for the Teranga Lions, but a testament to the rising quality of African coaching and tactical discipline. With Morocco serving as a world-class host, the event demonstrated that the continent is ready for the global stage, acting as a successful “dress rehearsal” for Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

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