The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco delivered a captivating blend of attacking football, vibrant atmospheres and intense debate, as Africa’s premier tournament played out over four eventful weeks.
Kicking off on Dec. 21 in Rabat, the competition showcased Morocco’s modern sporting infrastructure, impressive organisation and passionate fan support, reinforcing the country’s growing reputation as a continental football hub.
The opening ceremony in Rabat struck an ambitious tone, combining Morocco’s historic setting with a colourful celebration of African culture, tradition and modern expression.
Games were staged across Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech and Tangier, producing dramatic results, surprise performances and recurring controversies over refereeing decisions.
A total of 122 goals were scored during the tournament, surpassing the 119 recorded at the 2023 edition in Côte d’Ivoire and establishing a new AFCON scoring record.
The group stage was marked by unexpected outcomes, with established powers forced to battle hard against emerging sides.
Mozambique, Benin and Sudan earned praise for disciplined and organised displays, while DR Congo stood out for tactical maturity and composure in crucial fixtures.
Nigeria emerged as the most potent attacking team of the tournament, scoring 14 goals, more than any other side.
The Super Eagles’ firepower was driven by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, as Nigeria’s pace, width and pressing consistently troubled opponents.
However, Nigeria’s campaign faced a brief distraction off the pitch, with reports of unpaid allowances and internal tensions threatening to derail preparations.
The intervention of the Federal Government helped resolve the situation, allowing the team to regain focus.
Nigeria’s title challenge ended at the semi-final stage following a penalty shoot-out defeat to host nation Morocco, a match that later attracted widespread criticism over officiating.
Despite the disappointment, the Super Eagles secured the bronze medal after a goalless draw with Egypt in Casablanca, prevailing 4–2 on penalties.
The result extended Nigeria’s perfect record in AFCON third-place matches to eight wins from eight and increased their overall bronze-medal tally to nine, the highest in tournament history.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali played a decisive role in the shoot-out victory, further underlining Nigeria’s strength in high-pressure moments.
Egypt also reached the semi-finals, eliminating defending champions Côte d’Ivoire in the quarter-finals before losing narrowly to eventual winners Senegal.
Led by Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs once again demonstrated resilience and experience, though they fell short of silverware after losing the third-place match.
Host nation Morocco progressed confidently through the knockout stages, buoyed by home support and improved defensive organisation.
Brahim Díaz finished as the tournament’s leading scorer with five goals to claim the Golden Boot, while goalkeeper Yassine Bounou conceded only two goals en route to the final and earned the Golden Glove.
As Morocco advanced, however, scrutiny of refereeing standards intensified.
Players, officials and supporters raised concerns over inconsistent decisions and perceived bias towards the hosts, with several matches coming under close examination.
Nigeria’s semi-final defeat prompted criticism from supporters over the performance of Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea.
Earlier, Algeria protested decisions following their group-stage loss to Nigeria, while Cameroon also voiced dissatisfaction after their Round of 16 exit against Morocco.
Many observers compared the officiating unfavourably with the 2023 tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, arguing that overall standards had declined.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe acknowledged the concerns, stating that feedback from fans and stakeholders would be reviewed to improve consistency, accountability and integrity in officiating.
He noted that referees and VAR officials had been instructed before the tournament to operate with independence and impartiality.
The final, played on Jan. 18 in Rabat between Morocco and Senegal, became the focal point of controversy.
Referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty in the 98th minute following a VAR review, shortly after Senegal had a goal ruled out.
Senegal’s players briefly left the pitch in protest, causing a delay before play resumed.
The penalty was saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, and Senegal went on to score in extra time through Pape Gueye to seal a 1–0 victory and secure their second AFCON title in five years.
After the match, Morocco coach Walid Regragui criticised Senegal’s protest, while FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the scenes and called for a disciplinary review.
Ultimately, AFCON 2025 will be remembered for its attacking flair, competitive balance and strong hosting, even as persistent refereeing controversies continue to shape discussions around the tournament’s lasting legacy.