The TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 officially commenced on Sunday night with a dazzling opening ceremony held at 6:00 PM WAT at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco. This spectacular event was designed to inaugurate a month-long celebration of continental football and rich African culture, setting an enthusiastic tone for the prestigious tournament.

Anticipation for the ceremony reached a fever pitch with the arrival of Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido. The acclaimed artist shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) showcasing himself and his team at the stadium, sparking widespread excitement across social media platforms. Davido had previously announced his performance at the opening ceremony, set for 6:30 PM WAT, and indeed captivated the audience alongside renowned French Montana. The star-studded lineup also featured electrifying performances from other notable artists including Douaa Lahyaoui, Lartiste, and Says’z, ensuring a vibrant start to the event.

A significant highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of the official AFCON 2025 anthem. This musical centerpiece, celebrating themes of unity and continental pride, was performed by an esteemed collaboration of music icons: Angélique Kidjo, Jaylann, and L’Artiste. Their joint rendition underscored the tournament's dual focus on sporting excellence and cultural expression.

The AFCON 2025 marks the 35th edition of Africa’s premier football tournament. It is scheduled to run through January 18, 2026, bringing together 24 national teams who will fiercely compete for the coveted trophy. Matches are set to take place across six vibrant Moroccan host cities, transforming the nation into a hub of footballing action. Organizers have articulated a clear vision for this edition: to position it as a grand celebration that transcends mere sport, showcasing the immense depth of African talent and cultural heritage, both on and off the pitch.