African nations have begun unveiling provisional squads for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicks off in Morocco on 21 December and runs until 18 January 2026, as teams prepare for the continent’s flagship football tournament.
Defending champions Ivory Coast will aim to retain their title after defeating Nigeria 2–1 in the last final.
Each of the 24 qualified teams is allowed to register up to 28 players, with the final squad submission deadline set for 11 December, while clubs must release players by 15 December.
So far, several countries have published full or partial lists:
Angola named experienced names including Neblu, Clinton Mata, David Carmo, Gelson Dala and Zito Luvumbo.
Benin confirmed a squad led by Steve Mounie and Aiyegun Tosin, alongside defenders Olivier Verdon and David Kiki.
Cameroon included Bryan Mbeumo, Georges-Kevin N’Koudou, Nouhou Tolo, and young talents such as Carlos Baleba.
DR Congo selected Europe-based stars including Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Arthur Masuaku, Chancel Mbemba and Cedric Bakambu.
Mozambique named Geny Catamo and Reinildo Mandava among their attacking options.
South Africa confirmed goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and attacking players Lyle Foster and Oswin Appollis in their squad.
Several major teams, including Nigeria, Senegal, Morocco, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Tunisia, Ghana and Algeria, are yet to officially announce their squads.
The tournament, hosted by Morocco, is expected to attract millions of viewers across Africa and the diaspora, with teams using the remaining days to finalize preparations.