The anticipation is building. In December 2025, Morocco will ignite with the passion of the Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament promising drama, skill, and the pursuit of continental glory. For Egypt, and its talisman Mohamed Salah, this competition represents more than just a championship – it’s a quest to finally lift a trophy that has long eluded his grasp.
Salah won’t be alone in bringing Premier League firepower to the tournament. Stars like Bryan Mbeumo of Manchester United, and a host of other top-flight players, will be battling for their nations. The current champions, the Ivory Coast, will be determined to defend their title, won in a thrilling 2023 final, while Nigeria seeks redemption after heartbreak in World Cup qualifying.
The tournament kicks off on Sunday, December 21, 2025, promising a month of captivating football. The final showdown is scheduled for January 18, 2026, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the culmination of this prestigious event. The group stage will set the tone, with intense rivalries and emerging talents taking center stage.
The opening matches promise immediate excitement. Morocco will face Comoros, while Mali clashes with Zambia on the same day. The following day will see Egypt test themselves against Zimbabwe, and South Africa battle Angola. These early encounters will provide a crucial glimpse into the form and ambitions of each team.
As the group stage unfolds, key fixtures will draw attention. Nigeria will face Tanzania and Tunisia, while Senegal takes on both Botswana and DR Congo. Algeria, boasting a squad capable of greatness, will meet Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea. The defending champions, the Ivory Coast, will be challenged by Cameroon and Mozambique.
Beyond the established powerhouses, several teams are quietly building momentum. Algeria, with its experienced squad, and Senegal, known for its dynamic attacking play, are considered strong contenders. Nigeria, fueled by a desire to prove themselves, could also make a deep run in the tournament.
The knockout stages, beginning January 3, 2026, will amplify the pressure and intensity. The quarter-finals on January 9th and 10th will separate the contenders from the pretenders. The semi-finals on January 14th will determine the finalists, culminating in the championship match on January 17th.
Fans in the UK will have comprehensive coverage, with every match broadcast live across Channel 4’s network – including Channel 4, E4, 4Seven, and their streaming platforms. This ensures that no moment of the action will be missed, allowing supporters to fully immerse themselves in the tournament’s drama.
Currently, Morocco is widely favored to lift the trophy on home soil, leveraging the energy of their passionate fans. Egypt, with Salah leading the charge, is closely positioned as the second favorite. Algeria and Senegal are also considered serious threats, creating a compelling narrative of potential champions.
The groups are set: Group A features Comoros, Mali, Morocco, and Zambia. Group B pits Angola, Egypt, South Africa, and Zimbabwe against each other. Group C will see Nigeria, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda compete. Group D includes Benin, Botswana, DR Congo, and Senegal. Group E consists of Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan, while Group F features Cameroon, Gabon, Ivory Coast, and Mozambique.
