The 35th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) roared into life on Sunday night in Rabat with a breathtaking opening ceremony that blended music, culture and symbolism, setting the stage for a month-long celebration of African football in Morocco.
Staged before a sold-out crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium and broadcast to millions worldwide, the ceremony unfolded moments before hosts Morocco faced Comoros in the tournament’s opening match. It served as a powerful reminder that AFCON is not only a football spectacle, but also a showcase of Africa’s rich cultural identity.
The evening opened with a serene yet evocative musical sequence, seamlessly fusing African rhythms with traditional Moroccan sounds. Performers moved in intricate, choreographed formations across a pitch transformed by colour and light, reflecting the continent’s diversity and shared football heritage.
Crown Prince of Morocco Moulay Hassan with the ceremonial kick-off
At the heart of the performance, a central figure carrying a football-shaped map symbolised African unity, while Amazigh-inspired music highlighted Morocco’s deep historical roots. Visual projections drew inspiration from Moroccan zellige patterns and artisanal crafts, complemented by striking imagery of everyday life, education, landscapes and iconic cities such as Fez, Casablanca and Marrakech.
One of the most emotional moments came with a rendition of Allah Ya Moulana, famously performed by legendary Moroccan group Nass El Ghiwane, anchoring the ceremony in collective cultural memory.
Music took centre stage as international stars French Montana, Davido, L’Artiste and Jaylann delivered energetic performances that electrified the stadium and underscored AFCON’s growing global appeal.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, opening his address with “Assalamu Alaikum,” expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, the Moroccan government and people, as well as Moroccan FA president Fouzi Lekjaa, for their role in hosting the tournament. He praised Morocco’s passion for football and officially declared AFCON 2025 open in the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The presence of Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, who formally inaugurated the competition alongside Motsepe and Infantino, added ceremonial gravitas to the occasion. Comoros President Azali Assoumani was also in attendance, highlighting the continental significance of the event.
As fireworks lit up the Rabat sky and the stadium erupted in celebration, AFCON 2025 was officially launched — not merely as a football tournament, but as a celebration of African unity, culture and identity.
With matches set to be staged across six Moroccan cities until January 18, the continent’s biggest sporting event could not have asked for a more fitting and memorable opening.
