"The Africa Cup of Nations is, as ever, likely to be a highlight of the football season, with this year's tournament set to begin on 21 December. Ivory Coast are the holders after they beat Nigeria in the 2023 final, and they will be aiming to add a fourth title. The other big hitters - Egypt, Cameroon, Nigeria and Senegal amongst them - will be in contention, but this is a significant tournament for hosts Morocco especially."
"The Moroccan government's investment in football has been a point of tension during the protests, but president of the Confederation of African Football, Patrice Motsepe, refuted suggestions AFCON could be impacted. We are absolutely convinced that the CAN will take place as planned, Motsepe said. Morocco is plan A, Morocco is plan B and Morocco is plan C. CAF will co-operate and work with the government and all the citizens of Morocco to host the most successful AFCON in history."
Morocco will host the Africa Cup of Nations beginning 21 December, with Ivory Coast defending champions seeking a fourth title. Major teams including Egypt, Cameroon, Nigeria and Senegal are expected contenders while hosts Morocco view the tournament as particularly significant. Widespread youth-led protests over government investment priorities in healthcare, education and transport have caused disruption and raised concerns about the event's staging. Interior ministry figures reported 409 arrests and injuries to 20 protestors and 260 police officers. The government's spending on football has fueled tensions. Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe stated that the tournament will proceed with CAF cooperating with authorities and citizens.
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