The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations begins this Sunday, December 21, with host nation South Africa welcoming the continent to what promises to be weeks of drama, passion and unforgettable football. From seasoned heavyweights to hungry dark horses, the stage is set for another fiercely competitive edition.

With the group stage draw now confirmed, attention has shifted to which nations have landed favourable paths and which face early danger. Traditional giants will be expected to assert dominance, but AFCON’s history shows that pedigree often counts for less than form, organisation and belief on the day.

As kickoff approaches, fans across Africa are split between confidence and caution. For some countries, the draw suggests a deep run is possible; for others, one slip could mean an early exit. AFCON rarely follows the script, and that unpredictability is exactly what makes it special.