Ten teams, including Morocco, automatically qualified, have validated their ticket for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations which will take place in the Kingdom. The last selections to secure their place, Equatorial Guinea, thanks to Togo’s defeat against Liberia (1-0), and Ivory Coast after a draw between Chad and Sierra Leone (1-1).
Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast therefore join Morocco, host country, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Algeria, DR Congo, Senegal, Egypt and Angola who are all expected at Moroccan stadiums for the African Cup of Nations which will take place from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026.
The qualification of Equatorial Guinea came even before the match scheduled against Algeria on Thursday, for the fifth day of the Group E qualifiers. The Equatorial Guinean team benefited from Togo’s defeat against Liberia, which is imposed 1-0 thanks to a penalty from Mohamed Sangaré in the 83rd minute.
Liberia accumulates four points and takes third place in the group, while Togo remains two points at the bottom of the standings.
Algeria, already qualified with a faultless run (12 points in four matches), dominates the group, followed by Equatorial Guinea with seven points. In the event of a tie on points between Equatorial Guinea and Liberia at the end of qualifying, direct confrontations (favorable to Equatorial Guinea) would decide between the two teams.
For its part, Ivory Coast was able to count on the draw between Sierra Leone and Chad (1-1) to put its title of African champion at stake during the next competition. Sierra Leone faces elimination if Zambia beat Ivory Coast on Friday
Zoubida Senoussi
What are the top teams to watch in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special interview on the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations! Today, we’re thrilled to have with us Dr. Amina Koné, a renowned sports analyst and football expert. Amina, thanks for joining us!
Dr. Amina Koné: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for African football.
Editor: Absolutely! Let’s dive right in. We recently learned that ten teams, including Morocco, have automatically qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in the Kingdom. This must be a thrilling moment for Moroccan fans.
Amina: It certainly is! Morocco has been showing impressive performances on the continental stage and is emerging as a football powerhouse. Their recent run in tournaments has created high expectations among their supporters.
Editor: And what about the last teams that secured their place? We saw Equatorial Guinea clinch their spot after Togo’s defeat against Liberia. How significant is this qualification for them?
Amina: Equatorial Guinea’s qualification signifies a revival for their footballing ambitions. They’ve had a rollercoaster journey in recent tournaments, and returning to the Africa Cup of Nations can give them a platform to showcase their talent on a larger stage. This kind of success can also instill pride and unity among their supporters.
Editor: That’s a great point. The dynamics of these tournaments are always so fascinating. Now, Ivory Coast also managed to secure their ticket. How important is their presence in the tournament, and what are their chances of success?
Amina: Ivory Coast is traditionally one of Africa’s football giants. Their history in the Africa Cup of Nations is rich, and with a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, they have a strong chance. However, in football, anything can happen! The key will be how they adapt to the tournament’s intensity and pressure.
Editor: So, with ten teams already qualified, what do you think will be the impact on the remaining teams vying for those last spots?
Amina: It definitely adds pressure. Teams that are on the brink of qualification will have to be strategic and might even need to take calculated risks in their matches. This competitive edge tends to elevate the quality of play and could lead to thrilling encounters as teams battle for the final slots.
Editor: Speaking of thrilling encounters, with this tournament being held in the Kingdom, what can we expect in terms of the atmosphere and excitement surrounding the event?
Amina: Hosting the Africa Cup of Nations in any country brings a celebratory atmosphere, but the Kingdom has been preparing with world-class facilities and hospitality. Expect vibrant fan engagement, cultural showcases, and, of course, the passion of African football that brings everyone together. This tournament will not just be about football; it will be a celebration of African culture and unity!
Editor: That sounds incredible! As we wrap up, what’s the one thing you’re most looking forward to in the lead-up to the tournament?
Amina: I’m eagerly anticipating the stories that will unfold. Each team brings a unique narrative, from underdogs to seasoned veterans. The friendships and rivalries, the emerging stars, and perhaps even surprises—these are the moments that make football so beautiful!
Editor: Beautifully said, Amina! Thank you for sharing your insights today. We can’t wait to see how everything unfolds as we approach the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations!
Amina: Thank you! I’m excited as well, and I look forward to discussing the tournament further once the action begins!