On Sunday, the opening ceremony of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with hosts Morocco taking on Coelacanths of Comoros to declare the tournament open. 

As of last week Wednesday, the tickets for the opening match were already sold out, with the 69,500-capacity stadium expected to be filled to the brim — mostly with Moroccans adorning the colourful red jersey to celebrate the return of the tournament to the country after 37 years.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Saturday, Morocco national team head coach, Walid Regragui, said the country has been waiting two years for the tournament, reiterating that the objective is to give everything and lift the AFCON trophy.

“We have been working for two years. It will be a big day, at home. Our objective has always been to win the AFCON and to give everything. Our supporters are with us,” Regragui said. “He also addressed the situation of Achraf Hakimi:“He may start, or he may not. Every match is important. We will have to manage emotions and play with confidence and humility.”

Meanwhile, Comoros head coach, Stefano Cusin, acknowledged the strength of the hosts but stressed that the opening game would provide an exceptional opportunity for his side to showcase themselves.

“It is an exceptional opportunity to showcase our country and our team. Morocco is extremely competitive, with or without Hakimi. We are looking for the right balance between defence and attack,” he said.