On Wednesday, December 24, eight teams played their first group-stage matches at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), setting the stage for the second round of competition.

Several big-name players made their mark in the opening fixtures, helping their national teams secure crucial points. However, the matches were also marred by disciplinary incidents, with multiple red cards issued.

In Group E, Equatorial Guinea faced Burkina Faso in a thrilling encounter. Equatorial Guinea’s Basilio Ndong was sent off shortly after halftime for a dangerous tackle, yet the team appeared poised for victory after Martin Anieboh scored in the 85th minute.

However, the Stallions mounted a dramatic comeback, scoring two goals in stoppage time to claim a 2–1 win.

A similar storyline unfolded in another Group E clash, where Sudan’s Salah Adel was sent off against Algeria. Riyad Mahrez scored a brace as the Fennec Foxes cruised to a 3–0 victory, topping the group on goal difference.

In Group F, Manchester United’s Amad Diallo scored the lone goal to lead Côte d’Ivoire past Mozambique, while Cameroon edged Gabon by the same score.

The second round of group-stage matches is scheduled for Friday, December 26. Egypt will face South Africa, Angola will take on Zimbabwe, and Zambia will meet Comoros. 

In the final match of the day, the hosts, Morocco, will play Mali.

The final of AFCON 2025 is scheduled for January 18, 2026.