The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) is set to commence this weekend, promising a month of high-stakes football drama. The tournament kicks off on Sunday, 21 December, with host nation Morocco taking on Comoros in the capital, Rabat.
Tournament Favourites and Contenders
All eyes will be on the hosts, Morocco, who enter the competition as the pre-tournament favourites. The Atlas Lions, who made history by reaching the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, are aiming to clinch their first Afcon title in nearly 50 years, their sole victory dating back to 1976.
They will face fierce competition from a field where half of the 24 participating nations are former champions. Key contenders include Egypt, spearheaded by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, the defending champions Ivory Coast, perennial powerhouses Nigeria, and a strong DR Congo side.
Broadcast Details for UK Viewers
For fans in the United Kingdom, watching the tournament will be straightforward. All Afcon 2025 matches will be broadcast live across Channel 4's family of channels. This includes coverage on Channel 4, E4, and 4 Seven, as well as via their streaming platforms and official YouTube channel.
Controversial Timing and Club Clash
The scheduling of this year's tournament has not been without controversy. A shortened player release period for clubs has caused friction, influenced by the congested football calendar which now includes the new-look FIFA Club World Cup and the latter stages of the UEFA Champions League.
This clash highlights the ongoing tension between international football commitments and the demands of elite European clubs, setting the stage for a tournament where players may arrive with limited preparation time alongside their national teammates.
