Can 2025: Morocco’s dream for glory at home as fans refuse to accept anything less

The countdown to CAN 2025 has begun, and for the Moroccan football faithful, there’s only one outcome that matters: victory. With the Africa Cup of Nations returning to Moroccan soil for the first time in nearly four decades, expectations are sky-high—and 20-year-old fan Ibrahim is no exception.

a historic chance to lift the trophy

The Lions of the Atlas haven’t tasted CAN glory since 1976, and the wait has been agonizing. After their historic World Cup run in Qatar, where they reached the semifinals, the pressure to deliver at home has intensified. Ibrahim, who grew up in Casablanca, remembers the euphoria that gripped the nation during that tournament—and now, he’s hoping to witness another golden moment in Rabat.

«It’s unacceptable that a football powerhouse like Morocco has only won the CAN once in nearly half a century,» he says. «We’re in our prime now. Anything less than a title would be a disaster.»

overcoming setbacks with confidence

The road hasn’t been smooth. Last year’s CAN ended in disappointment with an early exit in the Round of 16, and the recent injury to captain Achraf Hakimi—sidelined for six to eight weeks after a brutal tackle—added another layer of concern. Yet Ibrahim remains optimistic. «The team is stronger than ever,» he insists. «Hakimi’s absence is a blow, but the squad is deep. We have young talents and experienced players ready to step up.»

With Hakimi’s return and a blend of seasoned and emerging stars, Morocco’s squad is brimming with potential. The young fan, who now studies sports management in Ottawa, is confident the team will play attractive football and reclaim African football’s top prize.

a nation united in anticipation

The CAN 2025 is more than a tournament for Morocco—it’s a chance to showcase its footballing prowess on home soil. Despite a chaotic ticketing process that saw nearly 140,000 sold in the first 24 hours, Ibrahim will be among the lucky few attending the opener against Comoros in Rabat on December 21. «This is a dream come true,» he says. «To witness the opening match live, especially against a rival like Senegal, is something we’ve waited decades for.»

From the bustling streets of Casablanca to the packed stadiums, the Moroccan people are buzzing with excitement. The last time the CAN was held in Morocco was in 1988, and the memories—both of past glories and recent heartbreaks—fuel the nation’s hunger for success. As the tournament approaches, one thing is clear: failure is not an option.