When the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off on Sunday, December 21, hosts Morocco are hoping it leads to the culmination of an ambitious long-term plan to become the continent's leading football nation. Since last lifting the Afcon trophy in Ethiopia, in 1976, the Atlas Lions have rarely come close to repeating the feat. It is a lengthy wait which contrasts sharply with recent achievements elsewhere. Every time I put [on] the Moroccan jersey, it's like an amazing feeling, midfielder Sofyan Amrabat told the BBC World Service. The former Manchester United player was a key part of the Morocco side who reached the semi-finals of the last Fifa World Cup in Qatar - the first African nation to go that deep at the tournament. It's difficult to explain. It's something you feel inside in your heart, the 29-year-old said about representing his country. I'm really looking forward to this Afcon, especially because it's at home. And of course, we hope it's going to be ours. For Moroccan football analyst Jalal Bounouar, the expectations are clear. Morocco's primary and most immediate goal is to win Afcon, he told BBC Sport Africa. Continue on BBC.
