AFCON 2025 Countdown: Group A promises drama, skills, surprises

Group A in AFCON 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive in the tournament. Featuring Morocco, Mali, Zambia, and Comoros, this group has a mix of experience, history, and emerging talent.

Fans can expect thrilling matches, close contests, and moments that could decide who advances to the knockout stages.

Morocco: The Confident Hosts

Morocco enter this tournament as hosts and with a proud history. They are the first African country to reach a World Cup semi-final, and their players are eager to show that they belong among the continent’s elite.

With skillful attackers, a disciplined defence, and the backing of home fans, Morocco are favourites to top the group.

What to expect: Morocco will control possession, play with confidence, and look to assert themselves in every match. Their experience in big tournaments gives them an edge, but they cannot afford to underestimate the other teams.

Mali: The Heartbreak Contenders

Mali are a team that inspires respect. In the last AFCON, they came very close to reaching the semi-finals but heartbreakingly lost to host Côte d’Ivoire in the final minutes. This experience has made them hungrier and more determined.

Mali’s squad is packed with young talent, especially in midfield, and they are capable of dominating games while also being dangerous on the counter.

What to expect: Energetic and intelligent football. Mali are the dark horses of the group they can challenge Morocco for first place and are likely to qualify for the next round if they play to their potential.

Zambia: Champions with History and Heart

Zambia, the 2012 AFCON winners, may not have the current star power of Morocco, but they are far from pushovers. Known as the Chipolopolo, they have a fighting spirit, a strong work ethic, and a style that blends pace with physical strength.

Zambia often perform well against bigger teams, and their experience in winning a continental title makes them a threat to any opponent.

What to expect: Fast, aggressive football. Zambia will look to hit teams on the break and fight for every point. They are capable of pulling off upsets and are a team that should never be written off.

Comoros: Africa’s Emerging Force

Comoros may be one of the smaller football nations in Africa, but they are emerging as a strong force on the continent.

In recent years, they have surprised many by playing fearless football and challenging bigger nations. Comoros rely on teamwork, discipline, and quick counter-attacks, making them unpredictable and dangerous in every match.

What to expect: Passionate and determined football. Comoros will look to prove that they belong on the big stage and could create shock results that may influence who qualifies from this group.

Verdict: Expect Drama, Skill, and Surprises

Group A is a fascinating mix of history, talent, and ambition. Morocco and Mali look like the strongest candidates to advance, but Zambia can never be underestimated, and Comoros might just spring a few surprises. Fans should expect tight matches, moments of brilliance, and stories that capture the spirit of African football.

This group is not just about results it’s about pride, passion, and the chance to shine on one of Africa’s biggest stages.