The favourites and the stakes for CAN 2025: Morocco in the lead
- Atlas Lions CAN 2025 Morocco Morocco Fans Players and Selections
Maroc Fans- 0
- 22 minutes read
Morocco is preparing for the eagerly-awaited CAN 2025. The draw in Rabat shows their ambitions: to win a second African Cup. With Achraf Hakimi (PSG) and Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid), Morocco has some good cards up its sleeve.
Morocco is a firm favourite. The construction of nine stadiums, including the Grand Stade de Casablanca, demonstrates its ambition. Fouzi Lekjaa, re-elected to the FIFA Council, is heading up the project. It could bring in 2.2 billion euros and 335,000 jobs.
Success depends on the timely delivery of infrastructure. Morocco also faces challenges like Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire. This competition must be a success for Morocco.
Key points to remember
- With their FIFA ranking and stars like Achraf Hakimi, Morocco are the favourites.
- The challenges of CAN 2025
includes 9 stadiums built and €2.2 billion invested.
- Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt and Nigeria are the main competitors.
- The country aims to strengthen its African influence through this competition.
- Construction delays and cost remain major risks.
Presentation of the CAN 2025 in Morocco: context and organization
In 2025, Morocco hosts the CAN in a unique context. This country, Morocco favorite CAN 2025, is preparing this competition as a rehearsal before the World Cup 2030. 23 teams will compete in six emblematic cities.
Stadiums and host cities
The six host cities will host modern stadiums:
| City | Stadium | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Casablanca | Mohammed V Stadium | 50 000+ |
| Tangier | Tangier Stadium | 60 000 |
| Marrakech | Marrakech Stadium | 35 000 |
| Rabat | Moulay Abdellah Stadium | 50 000 |
| Agadir | Agadir Stadium | 30 000 |
| Fez | Fez Stadium | 25 000 |
Competition format and expected innovations
The CAN 2025 introduces some major changes:
- Format extended to 24 teams for greater participation.
- Enhanced video-assist technologies (VAR).
- Green initiatives for a sustainable event.
The importance of this edition for African soccer
The can 2025 predictions are part of a strategic plan. The event will generate 1.2 million visitors and 335,000 jobs. Morocco, favorite for CAN 2025, is strengthening its position in Africa thanks to this competition. Fouzi Lekjaa, President of the Moroccan Football Federation, emphasizes that this CAN is a test run for 2030. The innovations and success of 2025 will influence CAN 2025 predictions for future editions.
Morocco: why are they the favourites for CAN 2025?
Morocco is eagerly awaited for the CAN 2025. They achieved a great feat in 2022. Their passage to the quarter-finals of the World Cup was impressive.
Their status as hosts and their strategy strengthen their chances. They are ready for this competition.
An impressive record since the 2022 World Cup
The Atlas Lions dominated their Group A in the qualifiers. They scored 9 points out of a possible 9. Their 5-0 victory over Central Africa shows their strength.
The stakes for can 2025 are high for them. These results show that they are confident.
Home advantage and popular support
- Their audience will be an important psychological asset.
- Their logistics will be optimal, with no exhausting travel.
The Atlas Lions squad and its strengths
| Player | Club | Key role |
|---|---|---|
| Achraf Hakimi | PSG | Defensive balance and offensive speed |
| Brahim Díaz | Real Madrid | Creativity in midfield |
| Younès Belhanda | Al-Hilal | Technical pillar |
Their FIFA ranking is 12ᵉ worldwide. Their average age of 26 combines experience and youth. Despite rivals like Algeria, their tactical cohesion is unique.
The other favourite nations and their chances of success
Morocco is not the only favorite for the CAN 2025. Other nations have technical strengths and competitive players. Senegal, defending its title, is ranked 20ᵉ in the world. With 19 players in Europe, it has great collective strength.
Their new coach, Pape Thiaw, needs to capitalize on this strength.
- Algeria, 24ᵉ in the world, are counting on their experience (869 matches) with Vladimir Petkovic. Her defense and attack could make her shine.
- Côte d’Ivoire, with Sébastien Haller and Wilfried Zaha, have a dangerous attack. Their less coherent group remains a threat.
- Egypt, with seven titles to their name, are looking to return to success with Mohamed Salah. Their dependence on Salah could be a weak point.
- Nigeria, with Eric Chelle, is counting on Victor Osimhen to reach a continental podium.
Tunisia and Mali are also among the favourites. Burkina Faso’s Les Etalons are banking on their tactical unity. The favorite can 2025 teams will have to take account of the terrain in Morocco. The Moroccan public could play a key role in important matches.
The stakes and challenges facing teams at CAN 2025
The CAN 2025 teams will face major challenges. An analysis details the obstacles. Managing logistical and sporting constraints is crucial to their success.
The tight schedule, with the European championships, brings tensions. Federations receive more subsidies for preparatory training camps. But players in Europe risk injury or missing matches.
| Type | Previous grant | New amount |
|---|---|---|
| Unions | $500 000 | $750 000 |
| Federations | $200 000–$400 000 | Varies according to performance |
- European clubs could refuse to release key players.
- Example: Éric Chelle’s Nigeria has to balance physical preparation with League 1 or Premier League obligations.
- A study shows that 60% of the favorites’ forwards play in Europe.
Summer temperatures in Morocco (up to 40°C) call for tactical adaptations. Teams from temperate zones such as Zambia or Mali will have to adapt.
A CAN 2025 analysis also raises the risk of increased fatigue. Medical staffs will have to keep a close eye on the players.
Group analysis and predictions for the final phase
The CAN 2025 analysis shows some exciting scenarios. In Group B, Morocco, already qualified, will play Gabon. The latter has a chance of qualifying in second place. Group A will see Tunisia play the Comoros, with Madagascar as the outsider.
Posters not to be missed in the first round
- Côte d’Ivoire (Group G) against Sierra Leone: a test for the Elephants.
- Nigeria (Group D) face Benin, where the tension will be at its highest for second place.
- Ghana (Group E) must beat Liberia to avoid elimination.
The tournament’s possible surprises and outsiders
Can 2025 predictions are full of surprises. Mozambique and Mali meet in a crucial match (Group I). Kenya could also spring a major surprise by beating Sudan.
« Our aim is to pick up key points for the final phase.», said Mouyouma after Gabon’s 2-1 win over Kenya.
Burkina Faso and Senegal (Group L) are the favorites. But Burundi and Malawi could surprise with a good game. Rwanda could also beat Nigeria if the Super Eagles are too confident.
CAN 2025 analysis highlights Group J. Zimbabwe are in the lead, but Kenya remain in the running. These matches will determine who goes through to the final phase, with major climatic and tactical challenges.
CAN 2025 favourites and challenges: economic and diplomatic impact
The CAN 2025 in Morocco is more than just a sporting event. It brings a new economic dynamic and strengthens African diplomacy. With a budget of 15 billion dirhams, Morocco aims to demonstrate its expertise in hosting events.
Economic benefits for Morocco
The benefits are substantial: 2.2 billion euros in revenue, 1.2 million visitors and 335,000 jobs created. Tourism, trade and services benefit from these investments. Modern stadiums and improved transport attract more visitors.
- Direct and indirect job creation: 335,000 positions
- Infrastructure investment: 15 billion dirhams
- Increased tourism: 1.2 million visitors
CAN as a showcase for Moroccan development
The competition is a test for the organization of the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal. Improvements to airports and hotels demonstrate the long-term strategy. The event also strengthens exchanges with partners such as Kenya, through agricultural projects and joint investments.
The underlying geopolitical stakes
Behind the sport, the CAN 2025 reinforces Morocco’s credibility in Africa. It consolidates its role in the governance of continental soccer. Negotiations with countries such as Kenya demonstrate an economic diplomacy based on sport and mutual investment.
The success of this edition will be a key indicator for Morocco ahead of the 2030 World Cup. The can 2025 stakes are therefore as much technical challenges as they are a tool for international outreach.
Towards a historic CAN for African soccer
CAN 2025 is a key moment for African soccer. Morocco, with its fans and stars, is out to win. Challenges such as the tight schedule and difficult climate put everything on the line.
Despite their failures, Algeria face Burkina Faso in a demanding group. Players like Salah and Mané, who shine in Europe, carry the hopes of their country. Young talents such as Nketiah and Pépé demonstrate the diversity of the stakes.
CAN 2025 will also be a test for new ideas, such as night matches. Between the pressure and the opportunities, this edition could change the face of African soccer. The whole world will be watching these challenges and victories, marking the history and future of African soccer.
FAQ
Which teams will take part in CAN 2025?
Twenty-three national teams will play at the CAN 2025. They will meet in six Moroccan cities. These cities are Casablanca, Tangier, Marrakech, Rabat, Agadir and Fez.
Why is Morocco considered to be the favorite for CAN 2025?
Morocco are the favourites thanks to their impressive track record. They have shone since the 2022 World Cup. Their FIFA ranking is 14th. And playing at home with fanatical supporters is a plus.
Which key players will we need to keep an eye on during the tournament?
Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Diaz are key for Morocco. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah is also one to watch. He’s looking to win a title.
What are the main challenges facing our teams?
Teams face challenges. They have to manage the international calendar and the players in Europe. The Moroccan climate may also influence results.
What economic benefits is the CAN 2025 expected to bring to Morocco?
The CAN 2025 will bring 2.2 billion euros to Morocco. It will create 335,000 jobs. It’s a major step forward for the country’s development.
Are there any innovations planned for CAN 2025?
Yes, CAN 2025 will introduce new technologies. It aims to improve the fan experience. This should attract more spectators.
Which other countries could spring a surprise at CAN 2025?
Algeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria have great potential. They could surprise Morocco and rival them.
What does CAN 2025 mean for the future of African soccer?
CAN 2025 is a historic moment. It is a step towards the 2030 World Cup. It shows the development and passion for soccer in Africa.
