By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations officially kicks off today, December 21, 2025, in Morocco. This tournament is set to be a landmark event as it takes place during the festive winter season for the first time, bringing a holiday atmosphere to the continent’s biggest football stage.
The Opening Match: Morocco vs. Comoros
The action starts tonight at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The host nation, Morocco, faces Comoros in a high-stakes opening fixture. The Atlas Lions, led by Achraf Hakimi, are favourites to win their second title and their first since 1976. Their opponents, Comoros, are making their third consecutive appearance and are known for their ability to pull off major upsets.
Edition Highlights and Debutant Status
This 35th edition is unique for its competitive depth.
- Total Teams: 24 nations.
- Debutants: In a historic turn of events, there are no absolute debutants in this edition. Every qualifying country has played in the tournament at least once before, reflecting the high level of experience and consistency across African football today.
- Hosts: Morocco is hosting the event across six world-class venues in cities like Rabat, Fes, and Casablanca.
The Super Eagles: Quest for a Fourth Star
Nigeria enters Group C with a massive reputation and a point to prove. Under the leadership of coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles are aiming to go one step further than their silver-medal finish in the previous edition.
The squad features a blend of established stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, alongside five players making their personal AFCON debuts: Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Ryan Alebiosu, Tochukwu Nnadi, Salim Fago Lawal, and Usman Muhammed.
Nigeria’s Group C Schedule
All of Nigeria’s group matches will take place at the Complexe Sportif de Fes. Here is the schedule for when the Super Eagles will be in action:
Nigeria vs. Tanzania
Date: Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM WAT
Nigeria vs. Tunisia
Date: Saturday, December 27, 2025
Time: 9:00 PM WAT
Uganda vs. Nigeria
Date: Tuesday, December 30, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM WAT
The Super Eagles are widely expected to progress to the knockout stages, with their clash against Tunisia on December 27 being the most anticipated match of the group.
Will the Super Eagles redeem their World Cup miss by winning the AFCON? Well, fingers crossed from this end with a blend of skepticism.
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