Advanced Moroccan Preparations for AFCON 2025: Aiming for Local Triumph
Amid a climate of optimism, the Kingdom of Morocco is intensifying its preparations to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. Faouzi Lekjaa, the president of the Moroccan Football Federation, confirmed that the pace of preparations is surpassing the initial timeline.
In a meeting with representatives of national media outlets, Lekjaa revealed that four main stadiums, including facilities in Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, and Fez, are fully equipped. Meanwhile, work is rapidly progressing at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, which will host the opening and closing ceremonies, with completion expected by early September. He also noted that both the Postal Stadium and the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat are undergoing renovations and will be ready by the end of August.
The sports official highlighted the national character of the ongoing projects, stating that the Rabat stadium “is not just a sports facility; it is a national achievement par excellence, executed by purely Moroccan competencies and businesses.” He added that Morocco’s experience in preparing for the tournament is beginning to be regarded as a model to emulate on the continental level.
Dreams of winning the title occupy a central place in the official discourse, as Lekjaa believes that winning the Africa Cup on home soil “has become a non-negotiable goal.” He pointed out that the long absence from the podium since 1976 is an additional motivator for the national team, emphasizing that victory would be the catalyst to restore Morocco to the ranks of the elites in preparation for its participation in the 2026 World Cup.
The significance of the tournament extends beyond sports, as it enhances Morocco’s shared bid to host the 2030 World Cup. Lekjaa sees the successful organization of AFCON 2025 as a true test of the Kingdom’s ability to host major events, which will bolster its negotiating position in the tri-nation coalition with Spain and Portugal.
In conclusion, the president of the Moroccan Football Federation expressed confidence in Morocco’s capacity to deliver an exceptional edition of the Africa Cup, paving the way for a new phase of sports leadership on both the continental and global stage.
