AFCON 2025: Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Others Secure Spots as Qualifiers Heat Up

With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) fast approaching, 15 teams, including host nation Côte d’Ivoire, have now secured their spots in the tournament. The qualifiers have been intense, showcasing a mix of dominant performances and surprising outcomes as teams vie for Africa’s most prestigious football event.

Among the confirmed nations are perennial powerhouses such as Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, and Egypt, all of whom dominated their respective qualification groups. Côte d’Ivoire, as hosts, automatically qualified, while their strong squad continues to prepare for a formidable home campaign.

Nigeria’s Road to Qualification
The Super Eagles sealed their qualification in style, emerging as group leaders with a game to spare. Led by star players Victor Osimhen and Kelechi Iheanacho, Nigeria’s campaign has been marked by clinical finishing and solid defensive performances. The team remains a favorite heading into the tournament, with fans hopeful for their fourth AFCON title.

Other Notable Qualifiers
Morocco, fresh off their historic World Cup semi-final run, confirmed their status as a team to watch, breezing through their qualification group. Similarly, defending champions Senegal, led by talisman Sadio Mane, showed why they remain a force to reckon with in African football.

Côte d’Ivoire, the host nation, has invested heavily in preparations, with several of their top players performing in Europe’s elite leagues. The country is also set to showcase new stadiums and infrastructure, reflecting its readiness to host Africa’s biggest football festival.

Upcoming Deciders
While 15 teams are confirmed, the final matches in Matchday 6 will determine the remaining spots. Countries like Zambia and South Africa are in a strong position to qualify, while others face a must-win scenario to keep their AFCON dreams alive. The 2025 edition, scheduled to kick off in January in Côte d’Ivoire, promises to be a thrilling tournament, with fans anticipating high-quality football and fierce competition. The tournament will feature 24 teams competing in six groups, followed by knockout stages that culminate in the final in Abidjan.

As the qualification phase winds down, the anticipation for AFCON 2025 continues to build, with African football fans eager to witness the continent’s finest battle for glory.