By Precious Momoh
The race to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has reached an intense stage as 15 teams have secured their places, leaving nine spots still contested. With the tournament scheduled for December 2025 through January 2026, the qualifiers have showcased thrilling matches and dramatic turns of fortune.
Defending champions Côte d’Ivoire and three-time winners Nigeria are among the nations confirmed to participate. Both teams secured their spots during the latest round of qualifiers, which concluded this week. Côte d’Ivoire, who hosted the previous AFCON, advanced smoothly from Group G, while Nigeria earned a critical Group D finish after a dramatic draw with Benin, sealed by Victor Osimhen’s late equalizer.
Tunisia, South Africa Shine in Decisive Matches
Tunisia, with a dramatic 3-2 win over Madagascar thanks to Ali El Abdi’s stoppage-time header, marked their record 18th consecutive AFCON qualification. Meanwhile, South Africa and Uganda advanced from Group K without stepping on the pitch. Both teams benefited from Congo’s loss to South Sudan, which ensured their places as the top two in their group.
Gabon also joined the list of qualifiers after Central African Republic’s loss to Lesotho, cementing their spot without playing their final game in Group B.
AFCON 2025: Qualified Teams So Far
The confirmed nations for AFCON 2025 include:
- Morocco (Host)
- Nigeria (Group D)
- Côte d’Ivoire (Group G)
- Tunisia (Group A)
- South Africa (Group K)
- Uganda (Group K)
- Burkina Faso (Group L)
- Senegal (Group L)
- Cameroon (Group J)
- Egypt (Group C)
- Algeria (Group E)
- Equatorial Guinea (Group E)
- DR Congo (Group H)
- Angola (Group F)
- Gabon (Group B)
Several of these teams secured their qualification in dramatic fashion, showcasing the competitive spirit that defines AFCON. Algeria, for instance, remained unbeaten in Group E despite dropping points in a goalless draw against Equatorial Guinea. Burkina Faso impressed with their consistency in Group L, ensuring early qualification alongside Senegal.
Final Qualifiers to Determine AFCON 2025 Line-Up
As the final rounds approach, nine qualification spots are still open. Teams like Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are well-positioned to secure their places, especially with home matches on the horizon. Meanwhile, Ghana faces a challenging path after Sudan’s heavy defeat to Niger rekindled their hopes in Group F.
With the final qualifiers taking place from November 11-19, the stage is set for high-stakes action across the continent as the road to Morocco narrows.
The 2025 AFCON promises to bring together 24 of Africa’s finest football nations, offering fans an exhilarating tournament filled with surprises, skill, and the pursuit of continental glory.
