It’s no more news that the North African country of Morocco has been awarded the hosting right for the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) ahead of Nigeria. After its historic world cup run in 2022, the country will be looking to host and win the 2025 AFCON. The nation had the edge ahead of Nigeria after hosting the Club World cup for the third time in February 2023. The country already bidding to host the 2026 world cup will be hosting the 2025 AFCON in these historic cities;
Casablanca
Officially known as Casablanca, also known by its Arabic name Dar el-Beida, is the largest city in Morocco. The city tagged as the “white city” of Morocco has a long tram network covering 60 kilometers. Casablanca hosts the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Africa and the fifth largest in the world. Casablanca no doubt has a rich cultural history which has resulted in a diverse population, blending Moroccan, French, Arab, and Berber cultural influences. Importantly the city of Casablanca has bred a lot of football stars like Yassine Bounou, Achraf Dari, badr Benoun and its residents are passionate lovers of football. The city plays host to clubs like Raja and Wydad Casablanca. The Famous Grand Stade de Casablanca stadium has over 93,000 capacity and is definitely set to host some of Africa’s finest stars during the AFCON.
Rabat
Rabat hosted the 12th All African games in 2019 with over 7000 athletes across 54 African countries. Located at the Atlantic coast, Rabat is the capital city of Morroco and it has Africa’s largest theater and Africa’s second tallest tower. The name of the city reflects its fortified nature, with ancient walls and impressive defensive structures. Housing over 1.2 million persons, the dominant language in the city is largely Arabic. Rabat is a fascinating city with a rich historical culture and wonderful architecture, and a vibrant culture.
Tangier
Tangier is a city in northwestern Morocco, on the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, linked to the cities of Rabat and Casablanca by a rapid train line. The city also boasts one the largest cities in Morocco. As the name implies, Tangier is agriculturally known for Tangerines as the fruit originated in the city. The city is also considered the African gateway to many countries in Europe. The Ibn Batouta Stadium or Grand stade of Tangier has a capacity for 68,000 spectators. The stadium was inaugurated in April 2011, hosting a match between IR Tanger and Atlético Madrid followed by a match between Raja CA and Atlético Madrid.
Marrakech
The self-acclaimed city of Luxury The first Skybox stadium in the American-style stands, with its airport among the 10 most popular airports in Africa and among the 5 most visited cities on the continent in terms of number of hotels. The beautiful city with artistic scenery has served as a setting for big-budget Hollywood productions, and it was tagged second home of Hollywood. Stade de Marrakech with over 45,000 capacity was launched in 2003 and now hosts Kawkab Marrakech football club.
Agadir
Agadir is on the shore of the atlantic ocean near the foot of the atlas mountain. Agadir, the bustling coastal city of Morocco, is a fascinating destination for travelers looking for a perfect blend of sun, sea, and culture. In 2017, Crystal Palace (CPFC) players and then coach, Sam Allardyce reportedly visited and enjoyed a five-day stay at Riu Tikida Palace in Agadir. Its stadium has a capacity of 45,000 spectators, and is one of Morocco’s most prominent tourist cities.
Fes
Also known as Fez; the city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most intact and impressive medieval cities in the Arab world. The Fez Stadium is a multipurpose stadium and primarily used for football tournaments. The stadium is home to the Maghreb football club and also hosts other sporting events.
