Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is gathering pace, driven by packed stadiums, dramatic matches and a festival-like atmosphere that has spread far beyond the touchlines. As Groups A and B resumed action in the second round of the group stage, host nation Morocco and record champions Egypt found themselves at the center of attention, highlighting both the sporting intensity and cultural vibrancy of the tournament.
In Rabat, football blended seamlessly with celebration at the Royal Air Maroc cultural activation in the city’s main Fan Zone. The space has quickly become a focal point for supporters from across the continent, offering interactive games, mini-football pitches, live performances and exhibitions that showcase Moroccan heritage. The scenes reflected the broader mood of AFCON 2025, where fan engagement and urban energy are playing a defining role alongside the football itself.
On the field, Morocco faced a stern test in Group A against Mali. The match ended in a hard-fought draw, shaped by the intervention of VAR as both teams converted penalties in a tense encounter. Mali’s late response preserved their hopes of reaching the knockout stage, while Morocco, backed by a passionate home crowd, remain in a strong position heading into their final group fixture against Zambia on Monday. For the Atlas Lions, the result underlined both their resilience and the growing pressure that comes with hosting the tournament.
Group B, meanwhile, delivered one of the standout moments of the competition so far. In Agadir, Egypt edged South Africa 1–0 in a match that combined high stakes with late drama. Mohamed Salah calmly converted a first-half penalty before the Pharaohs were reduced to ten men following a red card just before the break. Despite sustained South African pressure in the second half, Egypt defended resolutely to secure the win, becoming the first team to officially qualify for the AFCON 2025 knockout stages.
The victory highlighted Egypt’s tournament pedigree and mental strength, qualities that have long defined the seven-time champions. It also reinforced their status as early contenders for the title, even as questions remain about squad depth and discipline ahead of the later rounds.
Beyond the stadiums, Rabat continues to embrace its role as one of the tournament’s beating hearts. From the Fan Zone to the Atlantic Corniche, supporters have filled public spaces, taking advantage of the city’s modern transport network and open-air venues. These areas have become gathering points for fans to watch matches, participate in challenges and celebrate football in a distinctly Moroccan setting.
As AFCON 2025 moves deeper into the group stage, the combination of competitive matches, committed host cities and vibrant fan culture is shaping a tournament that feels as much like a continental celebration as a sporting contest. With qualification battles intensifying and the knockout rounds on the horizon, the sense is growing that this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations is only just beginning to show its full character.
