AFCON 2025 Qualifiers Kick Off.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers kicked off on September 4, 2024, marking the beginning of the journey for 48 national teams across Africa to qualify for the tournament set to be held in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Here’s a summary of the latest updates and highlights:

Opening Matches: The qualifiers began with several matches, including Sudan vs. Niger, Comoros vs. Gambia, Libya vs. Rwanda, and Tanzania vs. Ethiopia. These games set the stage for what promises to be a competitive qualifying round.
Notable Teams and Expectations:
Egypt, a record seven-time winner, started their campaign against Cape Verde, aiming to bounce back from their last-16 exit in the previous tournament.
Morocco, as the host nation, has opted to participate in the qualifiers for match practice, beginning against Gabon. This decision reflects Morocco’s intent to maintain competitive sharpness ahead of the tournament.
Strategic Importance: For teams like Sudan and Niger, the qualifiers represent a chance to secure a spot in the tournament, with Sudan looking to return after missing the last edition, and Niger aiming for their third appearance.
Group Dynamics: The qualifiers are divided into groups, with the top two teams from each group (excluding Morocco’s group) qualifying directly for the tournament. This format ensures intense competition from the outset.
Broadcast and Viewing: For fans in the USA and Canada, select matches are available on beIN Sports, with streaming options via platforms like Fubo and Fanatiz, offering a one-week free trial for new users.
Key Dates: The qualifiers will continue over several international breaks, with matches scheduled through to November 2024, providing teams with multiple opportunities to secure qualification.
Public Sentiment and Media Coverage: Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have been abuzz with updates, predictions, and fan reactions. There’s a palpable excitement around teams like Libya under coach Milutin Sredojevic, known as ‘Micho’, and the strategic moves by teams like Mauritania, who’ve called up Kaizer Chiefs’ goalkeeper coach for their campaign.

This kickoff not only marks the beginning of the road to Morocco but also sets the stage for emerging talents and tactical innovations across African football, making the AFCON 2025 qualifiers a significant event in the international football calendar.