The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has been a tournament of intense drama, both on and off the pitch. Beyond the battle for continental glory, events have unfolded that have shocked the football community, frustrated supporters, and made history in African football coaching.
A Continent Mourns a Respected Voice
The African football family was plunged into mourning with the sudden death of prominent Malian sports journalist, Mohamed Soumaré. The respected reporter was found dead in his hotel room in Morocco, where he was stationed to cover the semifinal and final matches of the tournament.
His passing, reported by bsnports.com.ng, sent shockwaves through media circles across the continent. Soumaré was known for covering major international competitions and served as a mentor to many young journalists. Moroccan authorities and tournament organizers are handling the situation, though the official cause of death has not been disclosed.
Nigerian Supporters Deliberately Locked Out
In a controversial repeat of past incidents, a huge number of Nigerian supporters were locked out of the Rabat Stadium during the semifinal clash between the Super Eagles and hosts Morocco. Moroccan fans bought up virtually all available tickets, making up an estimated 95% of the crowd.
This created a massively one-sided atmosphere, which Nigerian fans and observers labeled as disgraceful and a failure of African football administration. "How can a continental fixture be played with no guaranteed allocation for the visiting team's supporters? It is unacceptable and embarrassing," one frustrated fan queried.
The tactic was not new; Morocco employed the same strategy during the Super Falcons' final against their women's team last year. While the Falcons triumphed then, the Super Eagles could not overcome the hostile environment this time, losing 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw. A Nigerian couple who traveled from the UK had to watch the match at a fan zone due to ticket unavailability.
Historic Achievement for African Coaches
Amid the controversies, a positive historic milestone was reached. For the first time in AFCON history, all four semifinalists were managed by African coaches.
The coaches leading their teams were:
- Walid Regragui (Morocco)
- Pape Thiaw (Senegal)
- Eric Chelle (Malian coach of Nigeria)
- Hossam Hassan (former Egyptian captain, coaching Egypt)
Morocco and Senegal will contest the final on Sunday, while Nigeria faces Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday.
Other Notable AFCON Highlights
The tournament saw several other significant stories unfold. Samuel Eto'o, president of Cameroon's Football Federation and a legendary player, was handed a four-game ban and a $20,000 fine by CAF for alleged misconduct during Cameroon's defeat to Morocco. FECAFOOT has criticized the decision and plans to appeal.
In a touching display of patriotism, a DR Congo fan, Kuka Mboladinga, went viral for standing throughout his team's matches in tribute to the nation's first Prime Minister, Patrice Lumumba. His act, which earned him the nickname 'Lumumba Vea', was later honored in a goal celebration by Nigeria's Akor Adams.
Furthermore, renowned South African superfan Mama Joy switched allegiance for the semifinal, proudly waving a Nigerian flag after receiving a Super Eagles jersey and ticket, though her adopted side fell short.
The host nation declared a public holiday on the day of their semifinal, flooding Rabat with a sea of red to support the Atlas Lions. For visiting Nigerian fans, the silver lining was the chance to explore Morocco's cultural gems, from Rabat's historic Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower to Marrakech's vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square and majestic Koutoubia Mosque.
