The group stages have concluded, and the excitement for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 has reached a fever pitch. As the tournament moves into the knockout phase, football fans across the globe are turning their eyes to Morocco for the Round of 16. The stakes are higher than ever: one loss sends a team home, while a win brings them one step closer to continental glory.
This guide provides the complete AFCON 2025 Round of 16 schedule, including kickoff times (ET), specific dates, and the stadium venues for every match. Whether you are rooting for the hosts Morocco, the Super Eagles of Nigeria, or the defending champions, here is everything you need to know to catch the action.
Complete Africa Cup of Nations – AFCON 2025 Round of 16 Schedule
Below is the detailed fixture list for the Round of 16. Mark your calendars for this weekend of non-stop African football action.
| Date | Matchup | Time (ET) | Venue | City |
| Sat, Jan 3 | Senegal vs Sudan | 11:00 AM | Tangier Stadium | Tangier |
| Sat, Jan 3 | Mali vs Tunisia | 2:00 PM | Mohammed V Stadium | Casablanca |
| Sun, Jan 4 | Morocco vs Tanzania | 11:00 AM | Moulay Abdellah Stadium | Rabat |
| Sun, Jan 4 | South Africa vs Cameroon | 2:00 PM | Al Medina Stadium | Rabat |
| Mon, Jan 5 | Egypt vs Benin | 11:00 AM | Agadir Stadium | Agadir |
| Mon, Jan 5 | Nigeria vs Mozambique | 2:00 PM | Fez Stadium | Fez |
| Tue, Jan 6 | Algeria vs DR Congo | 11:00 AM | Moulay Hassan Stadium | Rabat |
| Tue, Jan 6 | Ivory Coast vs Burkina Faso | 2:00 PM | Marrakech Stadium | Marrakech |
Key Matchups and Predictions
The Round of 16 features several clashes between heavyweights and emerging powerhouses. Here is a closer look at the must-watch games.
Senegal vs Sudan: The Title Defense Continues
The knockout stage kicks off on Saturday, January 3, with Senegal facing Sudan at the Tangier Stadium. As a perennial favorite, Senegal will look to assert dominance early. Sudan, however, has proven to be a resilient squad during the group stages. Fans should expect a high-intensity opener to the round.
Morocco vs Tanzania: Home Turf Advantage
On Sunday, January 4, the host nation Morocco takes center stage at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. With the roaring home crowd behind them, the Atlas Lions are under immense pressure to deliver a convincing win against Tanzania. While Morocco is the clear favorite on paper, the pressure of being the host nation often adds a layer of unpredictability to the game.
The Clash of Titans: South Africa vs Cameroon
Perhaps the most balanced fixture of the round is South Africa vs Cameroon on Sunday afternoon. Both nations boast a rich footballing history and physical style of play. This match at the Al Medina Stadium is widely expected to be a tactical battle that could go into extra time or penalties.
West African Giants: Nigeria and Ivory Coast
Monday, January 5 and Tuesday, January 6 see two of West Africa’s biggest teams in action. Nigeria will face Mozambique in Fez, a match the Super Eagles are expected to control, though Mozambique’s counter-attacking threat cannot be ignored. Meanwhile, the Ivory Coast faces a tough regional derby against Burkina Faso in Marrakech. Matches between these neighboring nations are always fiercely contested and filled with passion.
Venues and Host Cities
Morocco has prepared world-class infrastructure for this tournament. The matches are spread across iconic cities, ensuring the atmosphere is electric regardless of the location.
- Casablanca (Mohammed V Stadium): Known for its intense atmosphere, this venue hosts the Mali vs Tunisia clash.
- Marrakech (Marrakech Stadium): One of the most beautiful stadiums in Africa, hosting the final Round of 16 match.
- Rabat: The capital city is heavily featured, hosting three separate matches across the Moulay Abdellah, Al Medina, and Moulay Hassan stadiums.
Conclusion
The AFCON 2025 Round of 16 promises drama, heartbreak, and moments of brilliance. From Senegal’s opener in Tangier to the Ivory Coast’s showdown in Marrakech, every match carries the weight of a nation’s hopes. Make sure to check your local listings for broadcast details and tune in starting Saturday, January 3 to witness African football at its finest.