Hosts Morocco Face Heavy Burden of Expectation at Africa Cup of Nations

As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off in Morocco this week, the host nation finds itself under intense pressure to deliver a historic title on home soil. Despite a world-beating recent run and being Africa’s top-ranked team, the Atlas Lions have not lifted the continental trophy since 1976 — a drought now spanning nearly half a century. 

Morocco enters the tournament with confidence tempered by history. Their national side boasts an 18-match winning streak, the longest in international football this cycle and one that has captured global attention. Stars such as Achraf Hakimi, named Africa’s Player of the Year, along with Brahim Díaz, Youssef En-Nesyri and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou underline the squad’s quality. 

Yet that pedigree has not translated into AFCON success in recent decades. Morocco has frequently been tipped as a favourite, only to fall short before the later stages of the competition. With fervent stadiums and rabid home support, the weight of expectation is immense. Head coach Walid Regragui has acknowledged that hosting brings extra pressure — but one the team accepts with pride and ambition. 

Home Pride and Preparedness

Morocco’s preparations have extended beyond the pitch. The country has invested heavily in modern infrastructure, readying nine upgraded stadiums across six cities to host the 24-team tournament. These improvements serve dual purposes: showcasing Morocco’s organisational capacity and strengthening its bid for future global events, including co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. 

The pressure is not only internal. Predictive models from data firm Opta place Morocco as the favourites to win AFCON 2025, with the strongest statistical probability among all teams, reinforcing expectations from fans and pundits alike.

Challenging Opposition
Morocco’s path to glory is not without significant obstacles. Traditional rivals such as Nigeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Egypt stand ready to contest for the title, each boasting deep squads and tournament experience. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, in what could be his final AFCON, adds further narrative to a tournament brimming with storylines. 

The Atlas Lions will open their campaign against Comoros on December 21 in Rabat, with Mali and Zambia rounding out their Group A opponents. The group stage represents the first hurdle in what could be history-defining weeks for Moroccan football. 

Beyond the Trophy
For Morocco, AFCON 2025 is about more than silverware. It is a chance to validate years of investment in football development, national pride, and global reputation. With a fervent home crowd behind them, the Atlas Lions carry not only the hopes of a nation, but the aspirations of an entire continent watching for a historic triumph.