The race to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is intensifying, with eight countries already confirming their spots at the prestigious continental event. Following the completion of matchday four fixtures, these nations have secured early qualification for the tournament, set to be hosted in Morocco.
So far, Egypt, Senegal, Angola, DR Congo, Algeria, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, and Morocco have guaranteed their participation. As teams across the continent continue to battle for the remaining tickets, these early qualifiers are now focused on maintaining momentum for next year’s showpiece.
Below is a detailed breakdown of each team’s journey to qualification.
- Senegal – The Teranga Lions Keep Roaring
The reigning champions of Africa, Senegal, clinched qualification with a dramatic 1-0 win over Malawi. Talismanic forward Sadio Mane scored deep into stoppage time, securing a crucial victory in the 96th minute. This result ensured the Teranga Lions collected 10 points from their first four matches.
Senegal remains unbeaten in the qualifiers with three wins and one draw, sitting second in Group L, tied on points with Burkina Faso but behind on goal difference. They will face both Burkina Faso and Burundi in their remaining group matches, but their ticket to Morocco is already confirmed.
- Burkina Faso – Stallions Race Ahead in Group L
Group L leaders, Burkina Faso, are another team that has secured their place at AFCON 2025. The Stallions achieved back-to-back wins over Burundi, earning them 10 points and maintaining an unbeaten record.
Although they still have matches against Senegal and Malawi to play, Burkina Faso’s consistent performance has ensured they will be among the participants in Morocco. They will now aim to finish top of the group by maintaining their form.
- Angola – Perfect Run Keeps Palancras Negras on Top
Angola’s national team, known as the Palancras Negras, has been unstoppable in their qualifiers so far. They have won all four of their matches, amassing 12 points to top Group F. Their latest triumph came with a narrow 1-0 victory over Niger, securing their spot at next year’s tournament.
Despite their flawless performance so far, Angola still has two games remaining—against Ghana and Sudan. With their qualification already assured, they will focus on fine-tuning their preparations for the AFCON finals.
- DR Congo – Leopards Book Their Place with Early Success
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has also confirmed their participation in Morocco. The Leopards secured qualification after defeating Tanzania in both legs of their recent encounters, topping Group H in the process.
Under the guidance of coach Sébastien Desabre, DR Congo’s team has showcased resilience and tactical discipline. With two matches still to play, they will aim to finish the qualifiers on a high note, setting their sights on making an impact at the AFCON tournament.
- Algeria – Desert Foxes Blaze Through with 100% Record
The Desert Foxes of Algeria have been in dominant form, winning all four of their matches in Group E to gather 12 points. Their latest success was a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Togo, ensuring they are one of the early qualifiers.
Algeria’s remaining games against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia are now mere formalities. The North African giants will look to carry their flawless form into the tournament as they seek to reclaim the title they last won in 2019.
- Cameroon – Indomitable Lions March to Their 22nd AFCON Appearance
Cameroon, one of Africa’s most consistent footballing nations, has secured their 22nd AFCON appearance. The Indomitable Lions are leading Group J with 10 points, following three wins and one draw.
Their qualification was sealed with solid performances throughout the campaign, and they still have two remaining fixtures—against Kenya and Zimbabwe. With their place in Morocco assured, Cameroon will aim to continue their strong run and contend for yet another AFCON title.
- Egypt – Pharaohs Eye Eighth Title Despite Salah’s Absence
Seven-time AFCON champions Egypt have also confirmed their qualification with two games to spare. Despite missing star player Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs secured a 1-0 victory over Mauritania, bringing their points tally to 12 at the top of Group C.
Egypt’s dominance in the qualifiers has been evident, and they will now set their sights on extending their record with an eighth AFCON title when the tournament begins in Morocco.
- Morocco – Hosts and Group B Leaders Keep Winning
As hosts, Morocco automatically qualified for the tournament, but that hasn’t stopped the Atlas Lions from showing their strength in the qualifiers. They sit atop Group B with a perfect record, winning all four of their matches so far.
The Atlas Lions, who made a historic run to the semifinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, will enter the AFCON 2025 as one of the favorites. Their depth and star-studded squad will make them a formidable opponent on home soil as they chase a second continental title.
Summary
The race for qualification is far from over, but these eight teams—Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, Angola, DR Congo, Algeria, Cameroon, and Burkina Faso—have already confirmed their places. With two matchdays remaining in the qualifiers, the focus for these nations will shift towards fine-tuning their preparations for the tournament in Morocco.
As the AFCON draws closer, the stage is set for a thrilling competition. The early qualifiers will look to build on their strong campaigns, while the remaining teams continue to battle for the remaining spots in what promises to be another unforgettable edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.
