Morocco's Road to AFCON 2025: A Look at the Star-Studded Squad and Home Advantage

The excitement is palpable as Morocco prepares to host the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025). With the tournament set to kick off on home soil in just ten days, the Atlas Lions have revealed a formidable 28-man squad, aiming to capture their first continental title since 1976.

National coach Walid Regragui has carefully curated a team of top players, including notable stars like Achraf Hakimi, Yassine Bounou, and Sofian El Kaabi. The inclusion of Hakimi, despite recent fitness concerns, is a significant boost for the team, as the Paris Saint-Germain fullback headlines the list.

Regragui’s squad announcement is a strategic move, leveraging the home advantage to ensure a strong performance. The 2022 World Cup semifinalists have had mixed results at the AFCON in recent years, but the 2025 edition presents a golden opportunity to end their drought and claim the trophy on familiar ground.

The AFCON 2025 draw, held in Rabat, has confirmed all groups, fixtures, and venues for the tournament, which will run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. Morocco, along with defending champions Côte d'Ivoire and record seven-time winners Egypt, are among the twenty-four national teams vying for glory.

The host nation’s anticipation is high, with fans eagerly awaiting the start of the tournament. The Atlas Lions are one of the favourites to win the competition, thanks to their impressive roster and the support of their home crowd.

The squad includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, providing a balanced and versatile lineup. Achraf Hakimi, who recently won the African Player of the Year award, is a key asset, bringing his defensive prowess and attacking capabilities to the team.

The competition promises to be intense, with Morocco’s strong lineup pitted against formidable opponents. The home advantage, coupled with a well-rounded squad, positions Morocco as a top contender for the AFCON 2025 title. Fans and football enthusiasts around the world are eagerly awaiting the start of this thrilling tournament, which is set to showcase the best of African football.