Christmas Eve in Morocco promises fireworks as AFCON 2025 delivers four matches that could define the trajectory of Groups E and F. With Algeria's star-studded squad, defending champions Ivory Coast, and continental heavyweights Cameroon all in action, December 24 might just be the most significant day of the group stage so far.
Group E opener: Burkina Faso vs Equatorial Guinea (12:30 GMT, Casablanca)
The Stallions enter their opening fixture with a blend of experience and hunger. Burkina Faso reached the semi-finals in 2017 and have consistently punched above their weight in recent tournaments. Equatorial Guinea, meanwhile, carry the underdog tag but possess dangerous pace in transition.
Tactically, expect Burkina Faso to dominate possession while Equatorial Guinea look to hit on the counter. The Casablanca crowd could prove decisive in what promises to be a tense affair.
The main event: Algeria vs Sudan (15:00 GMT, Rabat)
Riyad Mahrez, Ismaël Bennacer, and company lead Algeria's charge for a third AFCON title. The Desert Foxes haven't lifted the trophy since 2019 and arrive in Morocco with a point to prove. Sudan, making only their second AFCON appearance since 2012, will look to frustrate and absorb pressure before releasing their quick forwards.
Algeria's tactical flexibility under Djamel Belmadi makes them formidable, but Sudan's low-block resilience shouldn't be underestimated. This match will test whether Algeria can break down deep defences—a skill they'll need if they're to go deep in this tournament.
Defending champions arrive: Ivory Coast vs Mozambique (17:30 GMT, Marrakech)
The Elephants return to competitive AFCON action for the first time since their dramatic home triumph in February. Sebastien Haller, Nicolas Pépé, and the emerging talent of Simon Adingra give Ivory Coast firepower across the pitch. But Mozambique have shown significant improvement and won't simply roll over.
Watch for Ivory Coast's high pressing and Mozambique's attempts to exploit the channels behind the Ivorian full-backs. The Marrakech crowd will witness either a coronation or an upset.
Group F finale: Cameroon vs Gabon (20:00 GMT, Agadir)
The Indomitable Lions close out Christmas Eve's action against their Central African neighbours. Cameroon's blend of experience—led by Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa—and youth makes them dangerous. Gabon, even without Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who retired from international duty, possess quality throughout their squad.
This fixture carries historical weight. Both nations have traded victories over the years, and the rivalry adds spice to what should be a tactically fascinating encounter under the Agadir lights.
What's at stake?
With only two matches per group before the crucial final round, every point matters. A loss on Day 4 doesn't eliminate anyone, but it creates pressure that can define a campaign. For Algeria and Ivory Coast, anything less than victory would be seen as a stumble. For the underdogs, even a draw could be the foundation for a memorable tournament run.
December 24 will reveal much about which teams have arrived ready to compete and which need time to find their rhythm.