AFCON 2025 Emerges as Global Football Event Too Big to Ignore

Addis Ababa, December 20, 2025 (FMC) — Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 has reached a scale and level of influence that makes it impossible for the global football community to overlook, according to an in-depth analysis published by The Athletic.

The continental tournament, which kicks off on December 21 in Morocco, brings together 24 national teams and a concentration of elite African footballers who are central figures in top European leagues. The Athletic reports that AFCON has moved beyond being viewed as a secondary international competition, instead asserting itself as one of the most competitive and culturally significant tournaments in world football.

According to the analysis, the growing prominence of African players at Europe’s biggest clubs has transformed how AFCON is perceived. Many teams competing in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and Ligue 1 will temporarily lose key players to the tournament, underlining AFCON’s direct impact on the global club season. This reality, The Athletic notes, challenges long-standing attitudes that previously downplayed the tournament’s importance.

The article further highlights that AFCON’s timing, often cited as controversial, is itself evidence of its weight. Being staged during the European season forces clubs, leagues and broadcasters to engage with the competition rather than sideline it. The Athletic argues that complaints over scheduling reflect AFCON’s growing power within an already crowded football calendar.

AFCON 2025 is also expected to showcase a high level of tactical sophistication and competitiveness. The analysis notes that African national teams are increasingly well-organized, with coaches and players drawing from experience at elite clubs and major international tournaments. This has narrowed the perceived gap between African teams and traditional football powers elsewhere.

Beyond the pitch, The Athletic emphasizes AFCON’s commercial and broadcast growth. Expanded global television coverage, digital engagement and sponsorship interest have significantly increased the tournament’s reach. The competition now commands large international audiences, particularly across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and parts of Asia.

Morocco’s role as host is another major focus of the analysis. With modern stadiums, improved transport infrastructure and experience hosting large-scale sporting events, the country is positioned to deliver one of the most polished AFCON tournaments to date. Matches will be played across several cities, with Rabat set to host the final in January 2026.

The article also underscores AFCON’s unique cultural importance. Unlike many international tournaments, AFCON is described as combining elite football with deep emotional attachment, national pride and intense supporter passion. The Athletic notes that these elements give the competition a distinct identity that resonates strongly with fans both on the continent and abroad.

At the same time, the analysis does not ignore challenges. Player welfare, preparation time for national teams and coordination with clubs remain ongoing issues. However, The Athletic argues that these debates should be viewed in the context of AFCON’s rising stature rather than as reasons to diminish its value.

As AFCON 2025 begins, The Athletic concludes that the tournament represents a defining moment for African football — one that reflects its growing influence, quality and global relevance. The competition, the article states, is no longer a peripheral event, but a major fixture in the international football landscape.