2025 AFCON: ‘Our most successful AFCON ever’ – CAF President Motsepe

CAF president Patrice Motsepe has described the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as the most successful edition in the tournament’s history, hailing both the quality of football and the organisation that has underpinned the competition.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday, on the eve of the final between hosts Morocco and Senegal, Motsepe said the tournament had captured global attention and showcased African football at its very best.

“We always succeed when our football is beautiful,” he said. “You can see the level of interest this tournament has attracted. Mbappé came here to Morocco, Zidane also, Koundé and other players. We are very proud that they came and supported the best players in Africa.”

Motsepe pointed to the standard of play as a key factor in the tournament’s success, noting that matches throughout the competition had drawn praise from respected coaches and football legends from around the world.

But he stressed that the impact of AFCON 2025 went beyond what happened on the pitch.

“The level of football was wonderful, as were the infrastructure, the stadiums and the services,” he said. “On behalf of the 54 federations, we express our gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, to the government and the people of Morocco, and to the work done by our brother Fouzi Lekjaa.”

The CAF president also highlighted Morocco’s hospitality, describing it as a defining feature of the tournament.

“This is what makes ordinary people say that the hospitality and warmth of the Moroccan people are beautiful,” he added. “My Moroccan friends tell me this is part of their culture, something truly special.”

AFCON 2025 reaches its climax on Sunday evening when Morocco face defending champions Senegal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 GMT.

For Motsepe, the final is not just about lifting the trophy, but about celebrating a tournament he believes has set a new benchmark for African football.