AFCON 2025 Starts In Morocco With Dazzling Opening Ceremony

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 kicked off spectacularly at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where Morocco staged a vibrant opening ceremony blending national tradition and African pride. Thousands of fans witnessed a dazzling showcase of lights, music, and dance, beginning with an emotional rendition of ‘Allah Ya Moulana’ by musical group Nass El Ghiwane. Global musicians, including French Montana, Davido, L’Artiste, and Jaylann, also performed. The event was attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who praised Morocco’s organisation as hosts.

Updated on: 22 December 2025 2:48 pm

The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Opening ceremony-1

Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros, in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP

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The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Opening ceremony-Moulay Hassan

Moulay Hassan, Crown Prince of Morocco, waves while FIFA President Gianni Infantino applauds before the Africa Cup of Nations group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy

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Performers take part in the opening ceremony of the Africa Cup of Nations and the opening group A soccer match between Morocco and Comoros in Rabat, Morocco. | Photo: AP/Mosa'ab Elshamy